WhiteStone P331-EVL

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Digitally controlled class A tube saturator

The Whitestone Audio P331 amplifier and its EVL version are designed to enrich your sound with all the colour we love in transformers and tubes. The two units are almost identical, except that the EVL version runs with more gain, and therefore more aggression.

Differences between the original version (grey) and the EVL version (black)

Let's start with what is identical. Like the original P331, the EVL version uses digital controls for all analogue parameters. Left/right matching is close to perfect. The fully differential solid-state output amplifier is unchanged. The "LIFT" circuit is also identical in both units. But since the frequencies boosted by the LIFT circuit are affected by the harmonics generated in the "LOADING" section, the LIFT section of the EVL does not sound exactly like that of the original P331.

The EVL's fully differential tube "LOADING" amplifier has a slightly different starting point. Although the LOADING control works the same as on the original P331, setting the operating point of the 6SN7 tube, it is driven much harder from the outset. This is not a guitar amp with distortion… it remains suited to mastering. It is simply a different, more aggressive feel than the original P331.

The XFORMER section is where most of the differences lie. There is much more current flowing through the EVL's transformers… pushing them much further into saturation. The result: more presence and punch in the low end, without becoming muddy or losing clarity.

Greg Calbi's opinion

"The only time I've had a tube box that didn't make the low end muddy."

"How many times have I tried a tube box whose effect on vocals I loved, but which made the kick too soft and killed the attack in the low end."

Examples