Unison Research Performance Anniversary Dual Mono Integrated Valve Amplifier at Vinyl Sound Buffalo, NY USA

The Performance Anniversary is a dual mono Class A stereo integrated valve amplifier from Unison Research (Treviso, Italy), available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY, USA. An updated and commemorative edition of one of Unison Research's most celebrated long-running designs, the Performance Anniversary increases output power over the original while retaining the legendary circuit architecture and visual elegance that made the Performance an icon of Italian high-end audio. It is fitted as standard with Gold Lion 6550 or KT88 output tubes and delivers 45 watts per channel in a parallel single-ended ultralinear Class A output stage. The frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 30 kHz, and IR remote control governs both input selection and volume from a comfortable listening position.

An Icon Updated for a New Generation

The Performance integrated amplifier has occupied a position in Unison Research's range for over two decades, recognized by audiophile publications on multiple continents as one of the finest integrated amplifiers in its class. The Anniversary edition marks the evolution of this design with Gold Lion output tubes -- widely regarded among tube amplifier enthusiasts as among the finest contemporary production KT88/6550 variants -- and an increase in output power to 45 watts per channel. The single-ended parallel ultralinear Class A output stage uses six Gold Lion 6550 or KT88 output tubes with two ECC82 and two ECC83 support tubes, maintaining the pure Class A bias that gives the Performance its characteristic warmth and dynamic ease. A feedback factor of 16 dB provides additional frequency stability without compromising the open, spacious quality of the output stage's native character.

Dual Mono Architecture and System Connectivity

Like the ABSOLUTE 845 above it in the Unison Research range, the Performance Anniversary employs a dual mono topology in which the left and right channels maintain fully independent circuit paths, minimizing inter-channel crosstalk. Four line inputs and one tape input provide comprehensive source connectivity, while the tape output enables recording integration. The output section presents 4-ohm and 8-ohm taps with bi-wiring capability, accommodating a broad range of loudspeaker designs. IR remote control for both input selection and volume is included, acknowledging the practical requirement of modern listening sessions. Power consumption of 500 VA max reflects the thermal demands of six output tubes operating continuously in Class A.

Key Features

• Gold Lion Output Tubes: The Anniversary edition specifies Gold Lion 6550 or KT88 tubes as standard -- premium current-production output valves selected for their linearity, consistency, and extended lifespan.
• 45 W per Channel Class A: Parallel single-ended ultralinear Class A output stage delivering 45 watts per channel with no crossover artifacts and full Class A bias at all times.
• Dual Mono Architecture: Fully independent left and right channel signal paths minimize crosstalk and maximize stereo separation.
• IR Remote Control: Input selection and volume adjustment via infrared remote for listening-position convenience.
• 4-ohm and 8-ohm Output Taps: Dual output transformer taps with bi-wiring capability for precise loudspeaker impedance matching.
• Four Line Inputs: Accommodates CD players, DACs, streamers, and other line-level sources, with one tape loop for recording.
• Italian Craftsmanship: Designed and built in Treviso, Italy, maintaining the rare elegance and build quality for which the Performance series is internationally recognized.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Unison Research Performance Anniversary?

The Unison Research Performance Anniversary is a dual mono Class A stereo integrated valve amplifier from Treviso, Italy, producing 45 watts per channel through six Gold Lion 6550 or KT88 output tubes in a parallel single-ended ultralinear output stage. It provides four line inputs, one tape loop, IR remote control, and bi-wiring speaker outputs across a frequency response of 20 Hz to 30 kHz.

How does the Performance Anniversary compare to the Unison Research ABSOLUTE 845?

The Performance Anniversary uses six KT88 or 6550 pentode tubes in an ultralinear output stage producing 45 watts per channel, while the ABSOLUTE 845 uses four 845 directly-heated triodes in a pure triode single-ended output stage producing 40 watts per channel. The 845's triode topology produces a harmonic structure dominated by even-order harmonics with a distinctly different tonal character from the pentode/ultralinear KT88 stage in the Performance. The ABSOLUTE 845 is heavier (199 lbs vs 110 lbs), more expensive, and uses the dual 845 tube -- considered by many to be the most sonically distinguished of all audio output tubes -- while the Performance Anniversary offers a more accessible entry into Unison Research's dual mono Class A architecture with the convenience of IR remote control.

What are Gold Lion KT88 tubes, and why does the Anniversary edition specify them?

Gold Lion KT88 tubes are a current-production re-issue of the original Genalex Gold Lion KT88, one of the most highly regarded power pentode designs in audio history. Manufactured today by New Sensor Corporation in Russia to original Genalex specifications, Gold Lion KT88 tubes are selected by Unison Research for the Anniversary edition because of their consistent electrical characteristics, tight batch-to-batch tolerances, and sonic reputation for linearity and extended high-frequency resolution relative to many other contemporary KT88 production variants.

Can the Performance Anniversary drive demanding loudspeakers?

Yes. At 45 watts per channel in Class A, the Performance Anniversary is capable of driving loudspeakers of moderate sensitivity (87 dB and above) in small to medium rooms. For loudspeakers of 90 dB or higher sensitivity -- including the Unison Research MAX 2 (96 dB), MAX 1 (94 dB), MAX MINI (93 dB), or MALIBRAN (89 dB) -- the Performance Anniversary operates with significant dynamic headroom. Its 4-ohm and 8-ohm output taps provide flexibility with low-impedance loudspeaker loads.

Where can I buy the Unison Research Performance Anniversary in Buffalo, NY or the USA?

The Unison Research Performance Anniversary integrated amplifier is available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, NY, USA. Vinyl Sound is an authorized Unison Research dealer serving western New York and the wider United States. Contact Vinyl Sound for current availability and to arrange an in-room listening session.