Welcome to our Electrocompaniet AW400 – Reference Mono Block Power Amplifier (pair) Review, where we dissect every nuance of Electrocompaniet’s flagship mono blocks. If you crave uncoloured detail, thrilling dynamics and unwavering stability—even at punishing low impedances—this is the amplifier journey you’ve been waiting for.
For full specifications and to explore purchase options, visit the Electrocompaniet AW400 Reference Mono Block Power Amplifier product page.
Design and Build Quality
At a hefty 25 kg apiece, the AW400 mono blocks boast a rock-solid chassis, precisely machined from aircraft-grade aluminium. Electrocompaniet’s heritage of clean lines and minimalist detailing shines through in the sculpted front panel, illuminated bias meters and robust heat-sink fins. Measuring 358 × 470 × 261 mm, these amplifiers slot seamlessly into any high-end rack or dedicated audio console.
Sonic Performance: Power, Precision and Poise
Based on the acclaimed AW180M platform, the AW400 elevates performance with a turbocharged power supply and ultra-low output impedance (<0.01 Ω). Delivering 400 W into 8 Ω, 765 W into 4 Ω and a staggering 1 010 W into 2 Ω, it cruises with effortless authority. Even at 0.5 Ω, the amp remains rock steady, making it the go-to for electrostatics, horn speakers or demanding planars.
Detail retrieval is jaw-dropping: harmonic distortion sits below 0.006% at half power, while the dynamic range and low noise floor (130 µV from 400 Hz–30 kHz) ensure even the faintest ambience cues emerge in full clarity. Whether you’re spinning delicate chamber music or thundering rock anthems, the AW400 reacts with natural rhythm and emotive realism.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
- Rated Output: 400 W @ 8 Ω, 765 W @ 4 Ω, 1 010 W @ 2 Ω
- Stability down to 0.5 Ω
- Frequency Response: DC–65 kHz (–3 dB)
- Input Impedance: 330 kΩ (fixed); Output Impedance <0.01 Ω
- THD <0.006% at 1 kHz, half power; <0.007% at –1 dB
- Noise (shorted inputs): 130 µV (400 Hz–30 kHz), 200 µV (DC–30 kHz)
- Dimensions: 358 mm W × 470 mm D × 261 mm H; Weight: 25 kg
- Power Consumption (no load): 230 W
Pros & Cons
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Pros: Exhilarating dynamic range, pinpoint accuracy, rock-solid stability at ultra-low impedances, majestic power reserves, pristine harmonic integrity.
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Cons: Premium investment, substantial weight requires a sturdy support, minimalist user interface (no onboard DSP).
Who Should Consider the AW400?
Serious audiophiles and home theatre enthusiasts with high-sensitivity or low-impedance speakers will relish the AW400’s effortless grip on complex signals. If you run full-range electrostats, horn systems or speaker arrays that demand instant current surges, this mono block review makes a compelling case for the AW400 as your amplification cornerstone.
A New Benchmark in Amplification
Ready to elevate your listening experience? Speak with our expert team at our award-winning Brisbane store by calling 1300 308 711 or emailing sales@theaudiotailor.com.au. At The Audio Tailor, we specialise in tailored solutions—ask us how the Electrocompaniet AW400 can transform your system into a reference-level performance rig.
