If you’re looking for a big sound from a small package, consider Mini-Watt’s new N3 integrated amp, which pumps out a solid 3.5 watts despite being barely bigger than some power transformers. Using a classic circuit — a single preamp tube (Tungsol 12AX7) feeding a matched pair of power tubes (Sovtek EL84s) — the N3 allows tube swapping, and as along as you opt for matched pairs they don’t have to be biased. (You can, however, adjust the plate current manually.) The unit itself sports a minimalist design, with a one pair of RCA inputs and a set of banana speaker plugs on the rear, and a passive volume control mounted front and center The unit doesn’t come with a power cable — find a Jolida owner who upgraded theirs and get one cheap.
Mini-Watt N3 ($378 plus $50 shipping worldwide, miniwatt.com)
