As mentioned in the launch post, THL’s very own Deezel recently received the SMSL SP200 THX for review and has the following initial impressions:
SMSL’s SP200 is a well-balanced, neutral-sounding amp that deftly straddles between musicality and precision. It’s a clean, airy and no-frills-sounding amp that draws excellent engagement from its accurate imaging and its gorgeous dynamic range.
Its stage, while large, may not be the most out-of-head I’ve ever heard – slightly edged out by SMSL’s very own M500 in that regard. But, the precision, separation and layering within is truly outstanding. The amp’s background is clean and pitch-black, allowing more delicate details to pop without having to push the top-end.
Stereo spread is fantastic too, portraying hard-left and hard-right pans excellently. The tom rolls on the drum solo of Dirty Loops’ Work Sh*t Out are an absolute treat. And, its portrayal of depth is palpable as well. Listening to well-recorded cymbal work on Vision Ears’ ELYSIUM, you get a clear idea of how far away the crashes are away from you. And, they’re fast, airy and well-resolved as well.
The only caveat I’d mention is the slightly pulled-back midrange. The SP200 certainly isn’t the most intimate-sounding amp. But, otherwise, for $289.99, my early impressions are telling me that you’ll be getting a mighty impressive performer. Well-built, clean-sounding and gorgeously-balanced, fun times are definitely ahead with this amp.
