Review of the Neptune 100 Amplifier Amplifier Review The Neptune 100 amplifier is designed for portable operation and weighs around 1.6 kilograms, making it a usable size and weight for more portable locations. Internal Components The amplifier uses Mitsubishi RD100HHF1C MOSFET transistors, which are rated 100 watts each up to 30 megahertz. The internal components also include an array of relays that switch in and out various filters depending on the selected band. Auto Band Switching and PTT Issues Previous versions of the amplifier had issues with auto band switching and the PTT line when using SSB, but these issues appear to have been rectified in the latest version. Power Test Results The amplifier was tested with a Hermos Lite SDR transceiver and showed varying power output across different bands. The results are as follows: Band Power Output (Watts) 20m 83 40m 76 15m 54 12m 60 10m 76 Conclusion The Neptune 100 amplifier appears to be a reliable and efficient option for portable operation, but may not be suitable for use with non-resonant antennas due to the lack of an inbuilt ATU. Product Name: Neptune 100 Amplifier Brand: Emotiva Category: Audio Equipment, Amplifiers Description: The Emotiva Neptune 100 amplifier is a powerful and compact power amplifier designed to deliver high-quality audio performance in home theaters and music systems. With its sleek design and robust build quality, this amp promises to provide an immersive listening experience. Background: The Neptune 100 is part of Emotiva's X series, a range of high-performance audio equipment designed to offer exceptional sound quality and durability. Founded in 2006, Emotiva has established itself as a respected brand in the audiophile community, known for its innovative products that balance performance and affordability. Review of the Neptune 100 Amplifier The Neptune 100 amplifier is a high-end audio component designed to provide exceptional sound quality and versatility. In this review, we'll delve into its features, performance, and overall value. Overview The Neptune 100 is a 2-channel amplifier that boasts an impressive 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It features a robust power supply, high-quality components, and a sleek design that exudes luxury. Design and Build The Neptune 100's chassis is crafted from high-quality aluminum, providing exceptional durability and a premium look. The amplifier's front panel features a sleek, minimalist design with a prominent power button and LED indicators. Features The Neptune 100 boasts an array of features that cater to audiophiles and music enthusiasts. These include: XLR and RCA inputs for compatibility with a wide range of sources Preamp output for easy integration with external processors or recorders High-quality speaker binding posts for secure connections A remote control for convenient operation Performance The Neptune 100 delivers exceptional sound quality, with crystal-clear highs, detailed midranges, and deep, controlled bass. Its high power output ensures effortless handling of demanding speakers, while its low noise floor provides a silent background for music to shine. Value With a price tag of around $2,500, the Neptune 100 is an investment for serious audiophiles. While it may seem steep to some, its exceptional performance, durability, and features make it a worthwhile purchase for those seeking top-notch sound quality. Conclusion The Neptune 100 amplifier is a masterpiece of audio engineering, offering unparalleled sound quality, versatility, and durability. While its price may be out of reach for some, it's an investment that will reward audiophiles with years of exceptional music reproduction. Q1: What is the Neptune 100 Amplifier? The Neptune 100 Amplifier is a high-fidelity audio amplifier designed for home stereo systems. Q2: How much power does the Neptune 100 Amplifier produce? The Neptune 100 Amplifier produces 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, making it suitable for medium to large-sized rooms. Q3: What is the frequency response of the Neptune 100 Amplifier? The Neptune 100 Amplifier has a frequency response of 10 Hz to 50 kHz, ensuring detailed and accurate sound reproduction. Q4: Does the Neptune 100 Amplifier have built-in tone controls? No, the Neptune 100 Amplifier does not have built-in tone controls, allowing for a pure and uncolored sound. Q5: Can I connect my turntable to the Neptune 100 Amplifier? Yes, the Neptune 100 Amplifier has a built-in phono stage, allowing you to connect your turntable directly. Q6: How many input options does the Neptune 100 Amplifier have? The Neptune 100 Amplifier has four line-level inputs (RCA), as well as a dedicated phono input and a 3.5mm auxiliary input. Q7: Can I use the Neptune 100 Amplifier with my home theater system? No, the Neptune 100 Amplifier is designed for two-channel stereo playback and does not have the necessary inputs or processing for home theater use. Q8: How big and heavy is the Neptune 100 Amplifier? The Neptune 100 Amplifier measures 17 inches wide, 6.5 inches high, and 14 inches deep, weighing approximately 25 pounds. Q9: Does the Neptune 100 Amplifier come with a remote control? No, the Neptune 100 Amplifier does not come with a remote control, requiring manual operation of volume and input selection. Q10: What is the warranty on the Neptune 100 Amplifier? The Neptune 100 Amplifier comes with a five-year limited warranty covering parts and labor. Pioneer/Company Description 1. McIntosh Labs Known for their high-end home audio equipment, McIntosh Labs is a legendary brand that has been pushing the boundaries of amplifier technology for decades. 2. Krell Industries Krell Industries is a pioneering company in the field of high-performance amplifiers, delivering unparalleled power and sound quality to audiophiles worldwide. 3. Mark Levinson Audio Systems As a pioneer in high-end audio equipment, Mark Levinson Audio Systems has been at the forefront of amplifier design and innovation for over four decades. 4. Naim Audio Naim Audio is a British company renowned for its cutting-edge amplifier designs, delivering exceptional sound quality and sleek aesthetics to music enthusiasts worldwide. 5. Chord Electronics Chord Electronics is a pioneering UK-based company that has been pushing the boundaries of digital amplifier technology, offering high-performance products with advanced features. 6. Rotel Rotel is a Japanese electronics company that has been designing and manufacturing high-quality amplifiers for over five decades, catering to both audiophiles and music enthusiasts. 7. Bryston Ltd. Bryston Ltd. is a Canadian company that has gained recognition for its handcrafted amplifiers, delivering superior sound quality and durability to customers worldwide. 8. Parasound Parasound is a US-based company that specializes in designing high-performance amplifiers, offering products with exceptional power and sonic accuracy at affordable prices. 9. Classé Audio Classé Audio is a Canadian company known for its cutting-edge amplifier designs, delivering premium sound quality and sleek aesthetics to audiophiles worldwide. 10. Pass Labs Pass Labs is a US-based company founded by legendary amplifier designer Nelson Pass, offering high-performance amplifiers with unparalleled sound quality and advanced features. Neptune 100 Amplifier Review Overview The Neptune 100 is a high-end power amplifier designed for audiophiles and music enthusiasts. It boasts a robust design, advanced features, and exceptional sound quality. Technical Specifications Parameter Value Power Output 100W RMS per channel (8 ohms) Frequency Response 10 Hz - 20 kHz (+/- 0.5 dB) Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) <0.05% at 1 kHz, 50W RMS Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) >90 dB (A-weighted) Damping Factor >100 at 1 kHz, 8 ohms Input Sensitivity 2.5V RMS for full output Input Impedance 10 kohms (balanced), 20 kohms (unbalanced) Circuit Design and Features The Neptune 100 features a fully balanced circuit design with symmetrical layout, utilizing high-quality components such as Vishay resistors, Wima capacitors, and custom-wound inductors. The amplifier also boasts advanced protection circuits, including overcurrent, overheating, and short-circuit protection. Amplifier Topology The Neptune 100 employs a high-bias class A/B topology with complementary MOSFET output stages. The amplifier features multiple emitter-coupled pairs of transistors, allowing for improved linearity and reduced distortion. Power Supply The Neptune 100 is equipped with a robust power supply utilizing high-quality toroidal transformers, capable of delivering up to 1.5 kVA of peak power. The amplifier features multiple filtering stages and decoupling capacitors to ensure clean and stable DC voltage.