KWA 100SE vs Mark Levinson 331
The 331's power @ 8ω is 100W against the KWA 100SE's 120W, its power @ 4ω 200W against 210W, its signal-to-noise 80 dB against 95 dB, and its thd 0.500% against 0.060%.
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The ModWright KWA 100SE is a stereo power amplifier designed to combine the sonic strengths of tube and solid-state designs, delivering 3-D sound staging, holographic imaging, and a beautiful midrange with sparkling highs and low distortion. It features a single voltage gain stage called the 'Solid State Music Stage' developed by Alan Kimmel, MOSFET output stage design, true balanced floating inputs accepting both balanced and unbalanced signals, and a regulated power supply for the input stage. The amplifier operates with no global feedback, is direct-coupled, fully differential, and handmade in the USA. The KWA 100SE includes significant upgrades over the standard KWA 100, such as a 40% increase in output devices per channel, 100% increase in main power supply capacitance, and upgraded key signal and power supply capacitors to MWI custom capacitors and Takman carbon film resistors, resulting in better bass response, improved control, and enhanced low-level detail and overall resolution. It delivers 120 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 210 watts into 4 ohms, with the first watts operating in pure Class A. The amplifier is housed in a robust chassis with oversized heat sinks and features a high-low bias switch. Dimensions are approximately 17.75" W x 17.5" D x 6.5" H, weighing 40 lbs (47 lbs shipped). The KWA 100SE is no longer manufactured but remains highly regarded for its musicality and build quality.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The 331's power @ 8ω is 100W against the KWA 100SE's 120W, its power @ 4ω 200W against 210W, its signal-to-noise 80 dB against 95 dB, and its thd 0.500% against 0.060%.
The MD 301's power @ 8ω is 100W against the KWA 100SE's 120W, its power @ 4ω 200W against 210W, its signal-to-noise 110 dB against 95 dB, and its thd 0.050% against 0.060%.
The A-S1200's power @ 8ω is 90W against the KWA 100SE's 120W, its power @ 4ω 150W against 210W, its signal-to-noise 110 dB against 95 dB, and its thd 0.070% against 0.060%.
The SV-237MKII's power @ 8ω is 150W against the KWA 100SE's 120W, its power @ 4ω 250W against 210W, its signal-to-noise 90 dB against 95 dB, and its thd 0.100% against 0.060%.
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