Manley Labs 75/150 SE/PP 807 MONOBLOCK Stereo Amplifier User Manual


 
INTRODUCTION
THANK YOU!...
for choosing the Manley 75 / 150 SE / PP 807 MONOBLOCK Amplifiers. Designed by David Manley, the 807
MONOBLOCK Amplifiers use only the best available components, with the shortest and cleanest signal path
possible. These amps have the exclusive Manley ability to switch from Single ended to Push-Pull topologies. This
amp is designed to provide our customers with a the unique combination of single ended triode topology, solid
power and remarkable specs. This includes flat frequency response, low distortion and optimum damping factor
that are uncommon for single ended designs. In Push-Pull mode there is more of everything - double the power
(150 watts), extended frequency response, and higher damping factor.
Let us start out by stating our opinions about amplifier topologies. Historically, we have been manufacturing very
highly regarded tube amplifiers since before tubes were considered the best option for hi-fi music reproduction.
We have manufactured a very wide range of amplifiers with power ranging from 18 watts to 1000 watts and with
a corresponding variety of tubes. This is not our first amp to feature 807's nor our first single ended triode amp.
We build a $15,000 25 watt single ended amp on a custom basis. In our experience, the more power an amplifier
is capable of - the better it will be at providing acceptable low frequency quality. It is not easy to produce a very
powerful amp with highs with the same quality as the lows. To do that we had to start manufacturing our own
transformers. This is the major development that allowed us to produce an amplifier that could switch from
single-ended to push-pull. We had to design and build a very unusual transformer first.
When several other manufacturers started selling single-ended amps with 5 to 9 watts of power, we understood
subjectively and objectively the good part of the story - the superb mid range - the delicate transient detail - the
inherent simplicity. The bad news was that there were almost no speakers efficient enough to be a dynamic viable
system. The worst news was that either these single-ended amps cost more than the condo and/or they had specs
that could only be a joke. As the triode fans increased, more efficient speakers became available and several
fanatics began to dismiss push-pull as a bad thing to be avoided at all costs. We objected to such blanket
generalities and stressed that the push-pull done right with truly balanced transformers, quality parts throughout
and well designed circuitry has proven to be a superb technique. We also like single ended amps, but only when it
is done right, mostly because we demand flat frequency response and low distortion out of an amplifier.
We set out to design an amplifier that would appeal to us and to you and to the critics. It would be single-ended
but with more power than most single ended amps. It would be switchable to push-pull for fans of that school and
for those who want it both ways - to compare for themselves, and to use each mode depending on the music. This
was the SE / PP 300B amplifiers. We recieved such great response to it that we followed it up with this 8 X 807
based gem that would appeal to people who need reasonable power for their speakers (average sensitivity) and
listening levels (including rock). Up to now, they have had no option of using single ended triodes without trading
in their favorite speakers. We are proud of these amplifiers and have been featuring them at hi-fi trade shows and
exhibitions.
There are other benefits to being an owner of an 807 based amplifier. A prime advantage is that these tubes are
some of the most reliable we have experienced - plus these tubes are readily available and not extremely costly.
These amplifiers have a highly polished look thanks to the gold and chrome finishes. These new metal
technologies were not available a few years ago. Built to last a lifetime. Designed to look elegant. Engineered by
David Manley who happens to love music enough to be his lifes career.