The ML3 Signature is a single-ended (SE) tube amplifier utilizing a very powerful direct-heated triode GM-70 (125W plate dissipation) and a separate power supply. Combining the most sophisticated electronic technology with a graceful design reminiscent of the classic era of tubes, the ML3 Signature is unparalleled.
A 32-watt amplifier that operates in pure class A and utilizes no overall feedback, the topology of the ML3 Signature incorporates one of the most advanced power supplies ever featured in an audio device.
With the ML3 Signature as the centerpiece of a high-end system, recorded musical events are recreated with astonishing verisimilitude. The listener is able to experience an ephemeral, yet tangible, connection to the music. Those who have listened to the ML3 Signature first hand have unanimously acknowledged this phenomenon and reported it to be utterly unique in their collective experience.
SE tube amplifiers have the potential to reproduce music with a greater sense of realism than any other amplifier type or topology. Due to the limitations inherent in most designs, standard amplifiers can sound lovely in the midrange but their low- and high-frequency reproduction leaves much to be desired. The ML3 Signature overcomes these limitations to recreate a sound strikingly similar to the original live event.
Along with the ML2.2, the ML3 Signature is essentially the only SE tube amplifier available on the market capable of reproducing an entire range of audio frequencies – from the exquisite midrange to the most natural and extended bass and high frequencies. The amplifier’s innovative circuitry enables it to recreate the original spectral balance and harmonic structure.
Due to its extraordinary transparency, the ML3 Signature is unmatched in its ability to produce a three-dimensional soundstage. As with the ML2.2, the ML3 Signature brings out the most natural sound performance inherent in the signal and unequivocally demonstrates what a meticulously designed single-ended amplifier can do.
The most advanced technical solutions have been employed in the design of this amplifier —from the custom-made output transformer to the sophisticated power supply and unique front-end and output stages—enabling the ML3 Signature to yield tremendous sonic stability under most dynamic conditions.
The ML3 Signature features:
Each amplifier is handcrafted from the finest materials, including military-grade Dale and Vishay metal film resistors; PRC wire-wound resistors; Caddock power film resistors; Bourns multi-turn potentiometers; Cornell Dubilier and United Chemi-Con electrolytic capacitors; Electrocube, Elcon and Roederstein film capacitors; Hammond chokes, gold-plated Neutrik and Fischer connectors; heavy-duty, gold-plated binding posts; and military-grade, low-noise, long-life vacuum tubes.
Special attention was given to designing the plate, filament, and output transformers. They have no mechanical contact with either the transformer cover or the chassis and are suspended in a special encapsulant that almost completely absorbs residual mechanical vibrations. This plays a significant role in ensuring the consummate clarity and micro-resolution of the ML3 remain intact during sound reproduction.
The ML3 Signature has no overall feedback loop, but the amplifier features an option that allows the user to introduce a small amount of local feedback in the output stage. Also, there is a choice of two amounts for such feedback: NFB1 and NFB2, which differ in their levels. Therefore, there are three options regarding feedback use in the amplifier: no feedback, NFB1 or NFB2.
A multi-turn trimming potentiometer, accessible through a special opening in the amplifier’s chassis, along with a set of test points, allows the user to adjust and measure the plate current of the output tube via an external voltmeter.
The ML3 Signature works on all world AC line voltages (100/120/220/230/240 V).
NOTE TO ML3 SIGNATURE OWNERS
We strongly recommend that you have a high quality digital voltmeter on hand in order to properly adjust and control the parameters of the ML3 Signature. We use and recommend Fluke model 87-V. Using a cheap voltmeter is likely to give the wrong reading of the parameters resulting in improper adjustment, and, in the end, malfunction of the amp.
TUBE REPLACEMENT
12AX3/ 12BE3 tubes should be replaced every 1.5-2 years. GM-70 tubes should be replaced every 1.5 years to maintain the best performance of the amplifier.
LL1 Signature or L2 Reference
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