RRP: $1,999.95, $899.00 at Amazon.com

This amplifier represents another aesthetically pleasing addition to the Fatman range. Similar to the iTube 182, the iTube 252 is encased in a chrome-finished casing with nine valves of assorted size, arranged in groups along the top of the amplifier. The separate iPod dock is similarly clad in chrome with a steel bar protruding from the top to support the iPod when it is connected. Along the front of the amplifier to the right we find a chrome-plated source control and volume control, while to the left we find a power switch with power LED. The front panel is engraved with the model name and number, and a Fatman character above the company logo. The whole setup exudes quality and is clearly well made. With three source inputs, you will be able to hook up your CD player, TV or whatever else you like, so that the amplifier can form the centre-piece of your home entertainment system. The box includes all the necessary cabling to connect your TV, CD player or other Auxiliary device as well as a brush and white glove to keep your system nice and clean.

In order to hear what the amplifier sounded like, we attached a pair of Wharfdale 9.1 speakers, placed our iPod in the dock and let her rip. We were not disappointed! The 2 x 25w output produces plenty of sound with wonderfully coloured vocals, a solid midrange, and a good bass. The sound is natural and detailed as one would expect from a decent valve amplifier. Up against some of it’s more expensive rivals, the iTube 252 does struggle a bit with a slight harshness evident at times, but when one looks at the price tag and considers the addition of the valve dock we will not quibble.

So are there any disadvantages? A word of caution must be mentioned to owners of the iPod Nano which is not supported by the dock included. It is possible to work around this with some clever cable combinations but it is a pity that the Nano is not supported. The remote control only controls the iPod itself which is a bit of an omission but not a deal breaker.

All things considered, this is an excellent amplifier. While it will never beat more expensive valve systems, it is nicely positioned for those who want the valve sound without breaking the bank. The iTube 252 is a bit more expensive than the 182 but the extra power and improved sound reproduction make the extra investment worth it. The tailored iPod dock is a nice touch and should bring a whole new market to the benefits of valve amplifiers and for this we must commend Fatman. When combined with the stylish looks and excellent build quality, the Fatman iTube 252 will please a lot of people.

Specifications

• Source Inputs: 3x RCA pair
• Max Output Power: 25W x 2 (Self Bias)
• Frequency Response: 20-20KHz (±1.5dB)
• Distortion: ? 1%
• Signal to Noise Ratio: ? 85dB
• Input Sensitivity: 250m V
• Input Impedance: 100K ohm
• Output Impedance: 4 ohm/8 ohm
• Size (LxWxH): 392mm x 290mm x 157mm
• Weight: 15.22KGs

Tubes used: 5881 (EL34) x 4, 6N8P (6SN7) x 2, 12AX7 x 2, 6E2 x 1

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