Very musical amplifier. The sound is open and detailed but really magic and relaxing. You will be happy with this amplifier if you are able to buy it.

This amp has been the heart of my audio system since 2006 and still is (2013). 32wcp/class A works just fine on my ~90dB Tannoys. This fabolous amp simply give the right mix of control, neutrality, finesse, transparence and the little touch of magic (meaning: out of the way).

It easily puts my second amp (Bryston 4BSST) to subwoofer-duty. And the Bryston is better than my third amp (LabGruppen IP-450). They (The SSs) are survivors against stuff like Arcam, Parasound, Rotel, Aragon, Electrocompaniet, Thule ++.

I've been listening to quality valveamps like CJ-Premier 11A (very good), Mastersound 845, Opera 211. The 861 stayed and stays because of it's (in my ears) "perfect" mix of neutrality and soul. Ok, slightly more midband focus than the Bryston (neutrality-vice), but still close. The real difference lies in it's ability to let you excite and involve.

Gets hot, not cheap. But a real quality product. I give it a 5-star value rating because this amp has been faithfull and has put an efficient stop to my amp-swingerism.