The Pier Audio MS-580SE integrated amplifier naturally fits between the Pier Audio MS 480SE and MS 680SE models. Like on all Gold range amplifiers, it is designed on a tube/transistor hybrid mounting.
PIER AUDIO 580SE: FRONT PANEL
The front panel of the MS 580SE is available in black or golden brushed aluminium finishes.
There’s a volume potentiometer on the centre. We can find a nice backlit VU-meter above indicating the input level. On the left, there is the power switch accompanied by a push button a little to the left allowing the selection of sources.
These functions are also accessible via the standard remote control supplied with the Pier Audio MS 580SE.
PIER AUDIO 580SE: BACK PANEL
On the back of the amplifier, there are three gold-plated RCA pairs corresponding to the analogue auxiliary inputs and to a By-Pass input. We can also find a Bluetooth digital input that can be identified via an antenna on the back of the chassis.
The gold-plated speaker terminals are compatible with bare wires, fork and banana connectors. The power outlet is a standard IEC version allowing to add a specific power cable.
PIER AUDIO MS 580SE: INTERNAL CIRCUIT
On the inside, the Pier Audio MS 580SE amplifier uses 3 standard 6N11 pre-amplification stage tubes. All these tubes are from a New old stock. They were selected for their ideal musicality.
Regarding the power, the creators selected Toshiba bipolar power transistors similar to those found on most Gold range amplifiers.
The filter capacitors are insulated and thus moved off the device’s PCB motherboard. There are two 10,000 μF/50 V filter capacitors per channel.
The transformer used is of 450 VA for a final power of 2 x 50 real watts! The other capacitors on the motherboard are Wima MKT ones.
PIER AUDIO MS 580SE: TESTING AND LISTENING
From the first few measures, we recognise the reproduction which made Pier Audio famous.
The dynamic capacity and articulation of the Pier-Audio MS 580SE are remarkable. The sensation of power and control from the amplifier’s drivers is simply stunning! It doesn’t feel like a 50 watts device!
The vibrant and infectious sound reproduction is associated with an elegant timbre and will please all nostalgic of present and “warm” sound (and not only them!). The sound reproduction never shows aggressiveness or auditory fatigue. On the contrary, the balance favours the presence, the soundstage’s width and the substance.
However, we can note a transparency and attention to details superior to the MS 480SE. It goes perfectly with neutral or clear and transparent Hi-Fi speakers . It’s not afraid to be paired with imposing higher-end tower speakers…
Of course, it is recommended to attach an excellent source in order to capture its full value. Its Bluetooth input is interesting and handy, even though this format remains limited in terms of quality.
This Pier Audio MS 580SE integrated amplifier surprised all of us in many ways with its dynamic capacities and musicality. At this selling price, it is one of the best quality-price-musical enjoyment ratio products at the moment!
Would recommend!
AWARDS:
Diapason d’Or - 2020
FranckPower: 2 x 50 watts (8 ohms)
Harmonic distortion: <0.5%
AUX input sensitivity: <260 MV
BY PASS input sensitivity: <500 MV
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 42 kHz (-2 dB)
Signal-to-noise ratio: < 120 dB
Tubes: 3 x NOS 6N11
Digital input: Bluetooth
Driver impedance: 4/16 ohms
Remote control: sources and volume
Dimensions: 275 x 390 x 115 mm
Weight: 11 kg
Customer reviews
Excellent rendu
Très agréablement surpris par cet ampli, le rendu est très coloré, extrêmement précis. Couplé à des Sonus Faber lumina 1, et câbles offerts par Maplatine. Je recommande vivement