RRP: $899.95, 508.96 from Amazon.com

This addition to the iTube range is a bit different to what has come before it. Unlike previous editions of the range, the iPod dock and amplifier are combined in one unit. This eliminates the second unit for the iPod that was the norm for a lot of the other Fatman products. Another significant difference is that this time, Fatman have gone for a sleek black chassis design which some customers will no doubt prefer to the chrome of the others amplifiers in the iTube range. The unit draws attention to itself and looks great. Along the top deck of the amplifier, the black clad transformer is centrally positioned, while the valves are arranged to the right and the iPod dock to the left. Two chrome bars protect the tubes and iPod when it is docked. It has to be said that Fatman know how to put together a good looking amplifier!

The amplifier has two auxiliary inputs to the rear as well as composite and S-video outputs for those iPods with video capability. This gives you the ability to hook video enabled iPods up to your television which is a nice addition and allows the amplifier to become the heart of your home entertainment system. The 27-key remote gives you complete control over the attached iPod which means there is no need to get up once the iPod has been connected.

In order to test the audio performance, we hooked up a pair of Wharfdale 9.1’s, placed our iPod in the dock and let rip. The amplifier itself sounds great and at 25w per channel does not lack the punch that some of the other models in the Fatman range do. It brings a warm and well rounded tube sound to the table. The low end is juicy, powerful and fills the room, the midrange is lush, warm and well rounded and the highs are detailed and crisp. This is exactly what we want from a tube amplifier and it will kick the ass of most other iPod docks out there.

In conclusion then, we must say that this is one best iTubes to date and gets our full recommendation for those who want to bring some tube sound to their home entertainment system and make their iPod sound great all in one.

Specifications:

Power Output: 25Wx2
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20KHz (±1.5Db)
Harmonic Distortion: ?0.5%
Signal-To-Noise Ratio: ?86Db
Input Impedance: 100K?
Output Impedance: 4?, 8?
Valve Type: 2x6N1(ECC85)
1x6E2(EM87)
Power Supply: AC100~120V/50~60Hz, AC220~240V/50~60Hz
Dimensions: (Amp) 15″ x 6″ x 7″ (WxHxD)
Weight: (Amp) 8.8lbs

Popularity: unranked [?]