Automotive Audio: Tubed Tunes on the Go
June 1, 2005
Milbert BaM-235 Car Amplifier
Many of today’s mobile audio magazines feature rock stars and athletes who have invested the equivalent of a
sizable down payment for a second home in their automotive playback systems.
Most of these offer multiple large amplifiers and gigantic woofers, capable of
achieving earsplitting sound pressure levels. Unfortunately, when compared to
even basic home hi-fi systems, they often fall woefully short in fidelity.
However, there is an alternative approach. Maryland-based Milbert Amplifiers
handbuilds vacuum tube–powered car audio amplifiers that are similar in approach
to the best audio amplifiers designed for home use. Rumor has it that Eric
Clapton has a pair of Milberts in one of his favorite cars.
Milbert’s recent
amplifier, the BaM-235, is an evolutionary design that steadily improved over 19
years. The stereo power amplifier, which is built to military specifications,
generates 35 watts per channel and can be bridged to be a single-channel
monaural amplifier capable of 60 watts. Just remove the cover to reveal the same
high- quality components you would find inside an amplifier from Audio
Research or Krell. Thanks to a new auto-biasing circuit, the output tubes will
never need adjustment during their 10-year lifespan.
Skeptics might be wary
of the durability of vacuum tubes when used in an automotive environment, but
Michael Milbert assures that I could dropkick the BaM-235 while in operation
without affecting performance. While I did not take this extreme, a drive on the
most tortuous roads in my BMW equipped with aftermarket (i.e., stiff) sport
suspension did not affect the system’s performance in any way. Anyone installing
a Milbert in a luxury car should have no worries at all.
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