Sugden Masterclass IA-4 Integrated Amplifier

Sugden Masterclass IA-4: The Flagship Integrated Amplifier Delivering Supreme Class A Sound

The Sugden Masterclass IA-4 Integrated Amplifier is Sugden’s premier offering, a powerhouse of audio fidelity and elegant engineering. Known for its high build quality and substantial 20 kg frame, the IA-4 merges the rich, natural sound of pure Class A amplification with advanced circuitry for an unforgettable listening experience. This flagship model brings new refinements to Sugden’s renowned A21 amplifier series, adding an upgraded power supply, enhanced capacitors, and gold-plated circuit boards to maximise audio clarity and richness.

Pure Class A Amplification with Enhanced Power Circuitry

At the heart of the IA-4 is Sugden’s revered Class A power circuit, carefully upgraded from the A21 series with larger power reserves and refined capacitors for smooth, responsive output. With 33 watts per channel at 8 ohms, the IA-4 delivers an effortlessly powerful performance across a wide range of speakers, bringing dynamic and highly detailed audio across music genres. This fully Class A amplifier operates without crossover distortion, enhancing tonal accuracy and delivering warmth, depth, and precision that make it ideal for serious audiophiles.

High-Quality Phono Stage and Extensive Input Options

The IA-4 includes an integrated, high-quality moving magnet (MM) phono stage, a notable feature for vinyl enthusiasts who seek analogue sound at its best. Additional connectivity options comprise three line-level inputs, a tape input, and a balanced input, supporting a versatile range of audio sources. Outputs include a variable pre-out, fixed out, and speaker outputs, with full relay switching and a precision input selector switch to maintain audio fidelity across connections. This range of facilities allows the IA-4 to integrate seamlessly with both traditional and modern high-fidelity setups.

Bespoke Pre-Amplifier Section for Unmatched Sound Clarity

The IA-4’s pre-amplifier section is custom-designed to enhance signal purity, ensuring a listening experience that is marked by incredible clarity and detail. Known for its ability to create a spacious soundstage with depth and height, the IA-4 captures the essence of each recording, offering a truly immersive experience that brings out subtle details often lost with lesser amplifiers. With a frequency response from 14Hz to 200kHz and a bandwidth of 6Hz to 300kHz, this amplifier achieves a remarkably broad audio range, ideal for conveying the full detail and dynamics of any musical performance.

Refined Design and Remote Control Operation

Sugden’s Masterclass IA-4 is encased in a robust, minimalist chassis that complements its technical excellence with visual elegance. The amplifier is compatible with RC5 remote control for effortless volume adjustments, making it easy to maintain precise control from a distance. A tape monitor and record-off feature add further flexibility, supporting seamless playback and recording functions.

Premium Build Quality and Specifications for High-Fidelity Sound

Built to last, the IA-4’s internal structure includes gold-plated circuit boards and high-grade components, designed for long-term reliability and resistance to signal degradation. Its high signal-to-noise ratio of over 84dB ensures clean, distortion-free sound, preserving the original nuances of any audio source. Measuring 165 x 430 x 440mm, the IA-4’s substantial design reflects its robust engineering and dedication to quality, delivering a flagship experience that embodies the best of Sugden Audio’s Class A legacy.