RADAR is a price search engine. We link to the original listing — we never sell direct. Transactions happen on the source site.
The listing calls the Audio by Van Alstine Set 120 a preamplifier, but it is actually a high-gain power amplifier with a passive volume control and input selector, not a true preamp. Because the model is misidentified in the listing title, the US$650 asking price is hard to benchmark accurately against the provided ground truth for a preamplifier. If you are buying this as a flex amp or power amplifier with passive volume, US$650 sits well below the 25th percentile of US$737 for comparable Set 120 listings, making it a strong deal for that configuration.
The Set 120 is well-regarded for its hypnotic high-end sound without the high-end price, delivering 60Wpc into 8 ohms with a clean Class AB design. Its meaningful upside includes the convenience of a built-in Alps volume pot and selector switch, plus a powerful headphone output, all in a compact 30-lb chassis. At US$650, this is a buying opportunity for an enthusiast who understands it’s a control amp/power combo, not a preamp, and wants proven performance at a bargain price.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Audio by Van Alstine (AVA) traces its roots to over 50 years ago, when Frank Van Alstine founded the company in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota, USA. A self-taught audio enthusiast sparked by a teacher's component system in 7th grade, Van Alstine built a legacy on engineering simplicity and musical integrity, assembling gear with skilled U.S. technicians who prioritize true high fidelity. Though Frank passed away in January following a short illness, AVA endures, upholding his vision of state-of-the-art performance without excess.
The brand specializes in complete, synergistic high-fidelity systems, excelling in amplifiers—from compact monoblock power amps like the DVA M225, which employ a unique pure differential SET design, to integrated control amplifiers such as the Synergy series and stereo models like the NP1 delivering 55 watts into 8 ohms. Their lineup emphasizes straightforward, award-winning electronics that deliver exceptional sound at accessible prices, often integrating seamlessly for full-system builds.
AVA holds a respected niche among discerning hi-fi buyers as a boutique American maker of high-end yet value-driven gear, free of audiophile hype. Known for diminutive yet potent amplifiers praised in specialist reviews, it appeals to those seeking reliable, musical excellence over flashy marketing, backed by direct expert consultation from real people.
See all Audio by Van Alstine listings on RADAR.
