Many power amplifiers in this legendary range, such as the , utilize a hybrid design. The delicate input voltage regulation is handled by precision vacuum tubes (such as the ECC82/12AU7 dual-triode family), which inject a natural, three-dimensional depth and sweetness into the soundstage. The current muscle is then provided by heavy-duty MOSFET output transistors. This gives listeners the best of both worlds: the holographic imaging of tubes alongside the tight, iron-fisted bass control of solid-state electronics. 2. Pure Class A Operability
The is more than just an old amplifier; it is a piece of hi-fi history that delivers a genuinely engaging and satisfying musical experience. In a world increasingly dominated by mass-produced, feature-packed devices, the FX is a reminder of a time when engineering was focused on the purity of the music.
They pair exceptionally well with Musical Fidelity’s own tube preamplifiers, which enhances the holographic depth of the soundstage. However, a high-quality solid-state preamp will yield a faster, more transparent presentation.
Whether you are a seasoned audiophile looking to upgrade your stereo setup or a music lover building a high-performance home audio system, understanding what makes the FX power amplifier series unique is essential. This comprehensive guide explores the design philosophy, engineering excellence, sound characteristics, and system compatibility of these remarkable power amplifiers. The Design Philosophy Behind Musical Fidelity
Leo plugged in the FX. He handed Sam the remote. musical fidelity fx power amplifier
The Musical Fidelity FX power amplifier series embodies everything that makes high-end audio rewarding. By combining brute-force power with sophisticated, emotionally engaging sonics, these amplifiers do exactly what they were built to do: disappear from the signal chain and let the music speak for itself. Whether you are building a system around a classic used unit or exploring the brand's modern descendants, Musical Fidelity delivers an undeniable ticket to audio nirvana.
Bass reproduction is a standout feature of the FX series. Thanks to its high current capabilities, the amplifier grips the woofers of your loudspeakers with absolute authority. Low frequencies are delivered with exceptional speed, slam, and articulation. There is no artificial bloom or fluff; a bass drum sounds like skin hitting air, and acoustic basses reveal their rich, woody resonances. The Midrange: The Heart of the Music
The Musical Fidelity FX is a compelling choice only for the dedicated enthusiast who appreciates vintage charm, robust build quality, and a sound that prioritizes musicality above all else. It is a rare and rewarding amplifier that offers a genuine connection to the golden era of British hi-fi, but its rarity and age mean it should only be pursued by those willing to engage in the hunt and appreciate the nuances of classic audio engineering.
The FX2's ability to be used as a monoblock is a significant advantage. Using two FX2s as monoblocks would, according to the manual, provide a "noticeable increase in dynamic and imaging properties". This is because each amplifier channel is dedicated to a single speaker, eliminating any chance of crosstalk and ensuring that each channel has its own dedicated power supply. Many power amplifiers in this legendary range, such
Never choose between pure Class-A tone and high power again. The FX monitors your music and heat sink in real time, seamlessly shifting between ultra-low distortion Class-A for delicate passages and robust Class-AB for explosive dynamics. You get the legendary MF warmth at low volumes plus 150W of headroom – without the radiator-like chassis of vintage Class-As.
Musical Fidelity has packed the FX amplifier with proprietary engineering solutions aimed at reducing distortion and maximizing current delivery.
The F-series power amplifiers are noted for a distinct, authoritative sound:
: Older FX units can suffer from drying capacitors due to internal heat. If buying second-hand, a check for refreshed thermal paste on the MOSFETs and updated insulators is recommended for reliability. Compatibility This gives listeners the best of both worlds:
Founded in 1982 by clarinetist and audio enthusiast Antony Michaelson, Musical Fidelity always approached amplifier design from a musician's perspective. The company's goal was never just to meet impressive technical bench specs, but to reproduce the emotional realism of live music.
| Component | Specification | |-----------|----------------| | Output stage | Complementary bipolar (e.g., 4 pairs of Sanken MT-200 per channel) | | Bias sensing | Microcontroller (STM32) reading: input signal envelope, heat sink thermistors (<0.5°C resolution), output current via Hall sensor | | Bias control | Digitally controlled variable current source feeding Vbe multiplier | | Modes | – 50W Class-AB; Medium bias (200 mA) – first 5W Class-A; High bias (1.2A) – first 35W Class-A |
Because the FX power amplifier is inherently neutral and highly powerful, it pairs exceptionally well with a wide variety of audio gear. Preamplifier Selection