Music Reference
Tube Electronics

        Roger Modjeski has long been respected as a designer in the field of vacuum tube electronics. The man is known far and wide for his ultra-stable, extremely reliable (near bulletproof) and musically endearing designs. His past achievements include: The Music Reference RM-9, RM-10 and Counterpoint SA-4, each an example of why the name has become important. Music Reference amplifiers are valued for their long tube life, making them one of the more cost-effective tube products to own long term. The latest unit from Mr. Modjeski, the RM-200, is indeed a very interesting design.

       Three years in the making, the RM-200 employs a unique hybrid circuit topology to ply its magic. A special high voltage, fully differential bi-polar input stage is coupled to a pure tube driver and output stage. The bi-polar input stage imbues the device with an eerie quiet. Almost no noise is heard from the loudspeakers at idle, a surprising trait indeed for a tube amplifier. Speed and transparency also benefit from this topology. The RM-200 is extended and airy without being bright or forced. No artificial detail here.

       Four KT-88 output tubes (you can substitute 6550) produce 100 watts per channel. A very special tube was selected as the driver. Roger found the ideal match in the form of an RCA 6BQ7 (NOS). This tube is a very close cousin to the 6922, yet exhibits lower noise, higher current and less propensity towards microphonics.

       Diametrically opposed to most other tube amplifiers, the RM-200 actually produces more power as the load impedance falls from eight Ohms to four. Music Reference named this characteristic Enhanced Music Power , and it is possible because the design draws current from the tube grid directly. The sonic reward is an ability to drive far more difficult loads than could be handled by other tube amps. Bring on your low impedance speakers!

       Although my time with the RM-200 has been brief, I’ve heard enough to be excited about the product. In my mind, the RM-200 is whale of amplifier. Precise, unfatiguing and powerful. The claim that the piece can handle difficult loads with grace, is true. I drove the Aerial 10T, a rather power-hungry load, to good levels in a large room. Yes, the RM-200 can be pushed passed its limits. But the amp has as much or more reserve than any other similarly rated/priced amp I’ve experienced.

       At only $3450.00, there is no debate, the RM-200 is a great value. But there is more here than just value. The combination of reliability, sound quality and versatility make the RM-200 a real peach to own.