New Zealand hi-fi amplifier manufacturer Perreaux just announced the launch of the eloquence line of products, including the 250i, a very powerful audiophile grade integrated amp.

"The 250i delivers in excess of 350 Watts of continuous power into an 8 Ohm load before clipping," says Perreaux Engineering Manager, Clinton Jensen, "making it the most powerful Class-AB integrated amplifier in the world." Some digital (Class-D) products boast more power but not with a traditional design.

The 250i features a custom-designed 1000VA toroid power transformer, with an XQ core and magnetic shielding, to provide low electrical and mechanical noise, while offering well-regulated voltage and enormous amounts of current.

A low-impedance power supply, along with high-current MOSFET output devices and Class-A signal stages, result in a sound that is "dynamic, commanding and resolute"; according to Martin van Rooyen, Perreaux Managing Director.

The éloquence 250i is a feature laden integrated amplifier with many features, including input volume trim, initial volume, maximum volume limit, home theatre bypass, non-invasive balance control, customizable input labels, and more - all accessible via the intuitive user interface.

Solid construction and build quality has always been a Perreaux hallmark and the éloquence 250i Integrated Amplifier is no exception; the rugged chassis design, 18mm thick milled aluminum front panel, massive custom heat sinks and unique surface finish exudes luxury and ensures a lifetime of trouble-free operation.

The 250i's compact little brother, the éloquence 150i, is rated at 150 Watts into 8 Ohms and 300 Watts into 4 Ohms, and retains the same sonic characteristics, intuitive user interface and luxurious fit and finish.

Both éloquence integrated amplifiers are available with an optional 24-bit/192kHz Digital to Analogue Converter (DAC) - ensuring complete integration of digital source components, such as network music servers and set-top digital receivers, into a high-performance music system; as well as an optional Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) Phono Stage allowing connection of a turntable.

The éloquence 250i Integrated Amplifier is priced at $8,999 USD and the 150i at $5,999 USD, both are available now. The optional DAC is $999 USD and Phono Stage $499 USD.