VAC Auricle Mk II Amplifier User Manual
Page 8
Page 8
Triode Mode:
A small toggle switch provides a choice of partial-Triode (Ultralinear) and full Triode
operation. Your unit is shipped in the Ultralinear mode, but can be easily changed to Triode
by moving the switch.
Ultralinear and Triode sound different, although the extent of these differences will largely
depend upon your choice of speakers and ancillary components. Due to issues of system
matching, universal recommendations do not exist, although Ultralinear mode generally
provides more extension at the frequency extremes (low bass and upper trebles), while
Triode Mode can offer a more natural midrange presentation. As with our discussion of
transformer taps, VAC recommends auditioning your Auricle in both modes.
Compared with Triode mode, Auricle produces approximately twice as much power when
used in Ultralinear operation. When used as a Triode amplifier, the decrease in power is
offset by a 3 dB increase in dynamic headroom.