KORA TB140

Kora TB140: Square Tube, a revolutionary concept

When it is appropriate to speak of revolution, one must do so. In developing the Square Tube, Kora has created a new circuit topology, a new way of operating an amplifier. Unlike conventional hybrid amplifiers, the Square Tube uses the very same tubes — two ECC82 triodes and two ECC83 triodes — for both preamplification and amplification. The musical signal is thus transmitted to the power stage (transistors) at its final amplitude. In other words, it is not amplified by the transistor power stage, but simply relayed, without modification. The power stage is used solely to drive the loudspeakers. This sophisticated design allows the tubes to be supplied between +300 V and -200 V, unlike other amplifiers on the market which only supply their tubes with positive voltages. The result: the loudspeaker drivers are both pushed AND pulled, unlike other amplifiers which only push the diaphragms. This achieves an unprecedented level of loudspeaker control, translating into extraordinary articulation, an unheard-of level of detail, exceptionally low distortion, and bass depth and clarity never seen before. The challenge of incorporating Square Tube technology into an amplifier at this price point has been met — without compromise.

Listening impressions

When you connect the TB140 and proceed to your first listening sessions, the performance and musical quality are more reminiscent of separate components with mono blocks than of an integrated amplifier less than 12 cm tall. The energy produced by the Kora TB140 is simply extraordinary. It is hard to believe that a 2 × 70 Watt amplifier can drive loudspeakers so far, whatever they may be. The frequency response is extremely wide. The TB140 is truly a "loudspeaker revealer" — in the sense that many speakers will reveal themselves in the bass. Bass is deep and, above all, controlled and highly articulate. The tube sound delivers a natural midrange, with realistic vocal timbres and real substance. Treble is ultra-defined yet never veers into the analytical. Tonal balance is close to perfection. The TB140 can faithfully reproduce any musical message, whatever its complexity.

Thanks to the breadth of the signal produced by Square Tube technology, you can listen at low volume while enjoying full frequency response and a complete soundstage; and at high volume with unmatched listening comfort. The listener can enjoy high sound pressure levels without any of the usual discomfort, as the sound remains balanced, controlled, and free of distortion. A word on the soundstage too: the Kora TB140 has an impressive ability to create a three-dimensional image and give it absolute stability. The word "holographic" takes on its full meaning here.

Kora TB140: discreet, efficient, versatile

This integrated amplifier also shines through its understated and elegant design. Its low profile keeps it discreet, while benefiting from an attractive two-tone front panel. The display sits behind smoked plexiglass. The chassis is available in mineral or silver finish. A rotary knob provides access to all functions, settings, inputs and volume control. On the connectivity side, it offers four line inputs — one of which can be configured as a By-pass — a phono input, and a Pre-out output. This amplifier is versatile, both in its use and in its compatibility with loudspeakers. It performs across all musical genres and allows speakers to give their best regardless of listening volume. Its owner has no questions to ask — just switch it on, play music, and enjoy the moment!

Key features

• Patented Square Tube technology — ECC82 and ECC83 tubes handle both preamplification AND amplification
• Output power: 2 × 70 W RMS / 8 Ω — Class AB
• 4 line inputs RCA (1 configurable as By-pass) + 1 stereo phono input + 1 Pre-out
• Compact aluminium chassis (116 × 420 × 370 mm) — mineral or silver finish
• Remote control included (premium remote control optional)
• Designed and built in France (Haute-Garonne)
• 5-year manufacturer warranty

Strengths

• 100% French manufacturing — Haute-Garonne
• Square Tube technology — unique in the world
• Holographic soundstage, tonal balance close to perfection
• Versatile across all musical genres and all loudspeakers
• Award-winning: Diapason d'Or, HFA Highly Recommended Award

• Origin: Designed and built in France
• Type: Integrated amplifier
• Technology: Square Tube
• Nominal output power: 2 × 70 W
• RMS power at 8 Ω: 2 × 70 W
• Amplification class: Class AB
• Analogue inputs: 4 × stereo RCA (1 configurable as By-pass), 1 × stereo phono
• Outputs: 1 × Pre-out
• Speaker terminals: Stereo output
• Remote control: Included (premium remote control optional)
• Dimensions (H × W × D): 116 × 420 × 370 mm
• Weight: 11 kg
• Manufacturer warranty: 5 years