About the CAD-805RS Amplifier
Considered by The Absolute Sound as one of the ten most important amplifier designs of all time, the CAD-805 continues its legacy with the Reference Series CAD-805RS, epitomizing SET mono-block amplifiers’ excellence. Its circuit and parts upgrades ensure it remains at the benchmark for SET audio performance. SET amplifiers, characterized by their pure Class-A operation, distinguish themselves from other amplifiers, showcasing a harmonic richness that sets them apart. Please note that all SET amplifiers are pure Class-A, but not all Class-A amplifiers are SET.
SET enthusiasts praise the CAD-805RS for its holographic soundstage, harmonic richness, and lush midrange, delivering an immersive listening experience across music genres such as jazz, vocal, and classical. With the flexibility to choose between the included 845 and 211 output tubes, you can tailor your sound preference to either a rich, lush sound or a more linear, powerful profile. Experience the magic of music like never before with the CAD-805RS—where every note resonates with unmatched clarity and depth.
The following section describes the CAD-805RS basic specifications. The specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.
| Circuit Type | Single-Ended Pure Class A |
| Power Output | 50 Watts Pure Class A |
| Feedback | 0 to 10 dB, continuously variable control |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz to 20 kHz +/- 0.5 dB at Full Power Output |
| Power Consumption | 230 watts – OPERATE, 76 watts – STANDBY |
| Input Impedance | 150k ohms |
| Output Impedance | 4, 8 and 16 ohm speaker connection terminals |
| Signal to Noise | > 80 dB below rated output |
| Sensitivity | 1.0 Volt @ zero feedback for full output |
| Power Supply Capacitors | 4 – 1500 Fd @ 450V |
| Power Transformer | 1 – EI Laminated core power transformer 1 – Special air-gap output transformer 200% duty cycle on all transformers |
| Tube Complement | 2 – 6SN7 input tubes 1 – 300B driver tube 1 – 845 output tube or (Please choose 845 or 211 during install) 1 – 211 output tube (Please choose 211 or 845 during install) |
| Warm-Up Time | 5 minutes, after initial break in period |
| Break-In Period | 100 hours of music playing time |
| Finish | Jaguar ‘Anthracite Black’ chassis |
| Dimensions | 10” H x 12-1/4” W x 24” D |
| Weight | 85 lbs. |