WHO'S THE HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION?

We recently came across an interesting article in Stereophile magazine (Vol. 22, No. 1) written by Sam Tellig. The article pertained to his review of a particular imported amplifier, priced at US $4,950. Straying from the performance-related issues at one point, Sam Tellig addressed the issue of aesthetics and value. He developed an interesting "dollar-per-pound" cost index to compare a number of different amplifiers. This approach admittedly does not reflect sonic capability or product reliability, but we feel such an index is indeed indicative of the quality of materials used and the overall value offered. After all, high-quality, durable materials and components generally weigh more, cost more, and are more expensive to machine and/or fabricate. Note for instance, the prolific use of cheap plastics and lightweight metals in most mid-fidelity components. Better amplifiers should be built to last-inside and out. Just like a well-built automobile. Thus, you can see the logic behind his approach.

At any rate, Sam Tellig goes on to point out that the tested amplifier's dollar-per-pound ratio of $56.25/ lb. Is very reasonable, basing his finding on several examples that included a popular $1,495 amplifier that goes for $74.75/ lb, a $2,495 unit for $63.38/ lb., and an apparent "bargain" of a smaller amp that retails for $595 and costs $59.50/ lb. Being intrigued by these numbers, we did some research of our own using the most recent edition of the Audio Buyer's Guide. Relating the published retail prices to the weights, we found that the vast majority of amplifiers on the market today have a price-to-weight ratio of $70 to $100/ lb. Of particular surprise, our research indicated that about 1 in 5 amplifiers boast a price-to-weight index of more that $140/ lb., with some units easily topping $200 to $250/ lb.

So, how does the Odyssey Stratos stack up? Well, first we certainly agree with Sam Tellig that the amplifier he reviewed represents a very reasonably value at average. Therefore, the Odyssey Stratos, not even at 54 lbs,considering all of its special features that are included as standard, must be one of the current high-end heavyweight champion. Pound-for-pound it's one of the best there is at just $16.52 per pound.