The Inner Ear Report

Vol 13, #3, 2001, p38-41

"Redgum Monoblocks & Passive Preamplifier Model RGM175"

Overall rating 3 ½ out of 4

Summary

To the amazement of the reviewing panel, the changeover from a warm-up session with their Wyetech Lab Topaz/Opal system to a REDGUM RGM175 Monoblock amplifier resulted in a very pleasant surprise. The expected lose of musicality and accuracy was not in evidence; nor whether the source was valve or solid state. Several hours of listening were required to formalize a description of the REDGUM sound - a solid state MOSFET amplifier sounding more like a valve source. That this took so long was taken as giving credence to the musical versatility of the amplifier.

Connected to The Inner Ear Report’s reference speakers (Gershman Opera Sauvage and JMLab Mezzo Utopia), the REDGUM showed its ability to accurately reproduce music of all kinds, regardless of inherent difficulty. The stereotypical qualities usually attributed to MOSFET designs were not to be heard. On the contrary, across all frequencies the amplifier retained the sweetness and warmth that is the hallmark of valve gear. Treble-bass balance, detail, image, and especially depth were all heard to contribute to an exemplary soundstage.

From the very highest frequencies showing no signs of roughness to the strength and richness of the upper bass, the ability of the amplifier’s design to accurately reproduce music rather stunned the review panel. The midrange was seen as particularly impressive, creating a spaciousness expected only from far more expensive amplifiers. One minor point of criticism was the desire for a slightly fuller lower bass (see Ed. Footnote), though only when compared to more costly units.

The REDGUM 175 Watt Monoblocks were deemed to be true sonic competitors to amplifiers retailing at prices at least twice that of the RGM175. This amplifier offers a musicality equal to the natural beauty of the red gum wood of its fascia. The reviewers felt that the only difficulty in owning a RGM175 would be where to draw the line when buying speakers to match - a choice within a range of almost $20,000!

LLG

Editor’s footnote:-

The normal REDGUM extended bass output had been modified on the unit reviewed above. This was done at the request of a planar-style speaker manufacturer with whom REDGUM was exhibiting in Canada.