Tangent adds two compact and affordable amplifiers to its Ampster range

By Mary Stone
published

Small, versatile separates at accessible prices

Tangent preAmp II
(Image credit: Tangent)

Tangent is adding two new amplifiers to its Ampster line-up of affordable, compact and flexible hi-fi components. The preAmp II and PowerAmpster II are designed to work well together but can also pair with other separates.

The preAmp II uses a Cirrus Logic 24-bit/192kHz DAC and is an easy way to add comprehensive connectivity to your hi-fi, with inputs including Bluetooth 5.0 aptX HD, optical, RCA analogue, mini-jack and a phono stage. 

A pair of balanced XLR outputs are at the rear, while headphones can be connected via the 1/4-inch socket on the front, where there is also volume control. Measuring just 7 x 19.5 19.4 cm (hwd), the preAmp II has a footprint ideal for smaller spaces.

Tangent PowerAmpster II

(Image credit: Tangent)

With the same petite dimensions, the Tangent PowerAmpster II is a Class D power amplifier capable of delivering two channels of 100W power with a 4 Ohm load or one channel of 200W at 8 Ohms. It features a built-in power supply and integrates with pre-amplifiers via RCA and XLR inputs.

Both models are currently available in the UK, with the preAmp II priced at £200 (around $235, AU$342) while the PowerAmpster costs £250 (around $294, AU$428).

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Mary Stone

Mary is a staff writer at What Hi-Fi? and has over a decade of experience working as a sound engineer mixing live events, music and theatre. Her mixing credits include productions at The National Theatre and in the West End, as well as original musicals composed by Mark Knopfler, Tori Amos, Guy Chambers, Howard Goodall and Dan Gillespie Sells.