Spark MkIII

Pure Analog Desktop Amplifier

"No matter how much experience you have, there's always something new you can learn and room for improvement.

[Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart]

Spark MkIII is a result of our commitment to continuous learning, which results in ever‑increasing performance levels for all classes of our products.

A volume control potentiometer is the first electronic component on the way of the audio signal as it enters an amplifier. One of the most acclaimed manufacturers of potentiometers is ALPS, and their Japan‑made Blue Velvet series is well‑known in the audiophile world, for all the good reasons: low noise, excellent tracking, durability and sound quality.

Spark MkIII comes with the Blue Velvet potentiometer, which unlocks qualities that were masked by lesser alternatives.

Fundamentals are still the same: oversized custom‑made toroidal transformer (a new version built by Trafomatic), double‑side metallized polypropylene capacitors at the input and time‑tested circuit topology. Strategically placed bypass capacitors eliminate unwanted noises. The result is a new Spark that drives woofers with authority while maintaining stereo image coherence at higher volumes. Accurate tonal reproduction of the original Spark is preserved and strongly supported by a wide bandwidth.

Spark MkIII vs. Spark II

Spark MkIII comes with the following improvements: a new version of the power transformer, targeted noise bypassing and ALPS Blue Velvet volume control. What it means in terms of reliability and sound quality:

• Lower noise
• Lower heating
• Longer life of the volume control potentiometer
• Better tracking between L and R channel at low volume
• Lower cross‑talk between L and R channel
• Smoother, more revealing sound
• Improved accuracy of fine details (“microdynamics”)
• More accurate high frequency reproduction

Specifications

• Class A/B operation
• Two line‑level inputs
• Output power: 20 W per channel into 4 or 8 Ohms
• Frequency range: 10 Hz to 80 kHz
• Input sensitivity: 0.6 Vrms
• Input impedance: 20 kOhm
• Dimensions W x L x H (inches): 5.3 × 11 × 2.6
• Dimensions W x L x H (mm): 135 × 280 × 65
• Weight (lb): 5.5 lb
• Weight (kg): 2.5 kg
• Input voltage: 120 V or 230 V versions
• US price: $449.00
• Worldwide price: €***

Please note: There are two versions of the Spark MkIII, with 120 V and 230 V input voltage. These two versions are sold worldwide. The power cord does not ship with the unit: all power cords need to meet local safety regulations. A power cord with a standard “PC plug” (standard C13 connector) can be used. Minimum wire cross section should be AWG16 (1.5 mm²).