Swiss high-end audio specialist Nagra has introduced the AMP II-S stereo power amplifier, the latest addition to its Series II range, bringing updated amplification technology and engineering developments derived from the company’s flagship HD and Reference products.
Designed as a natural partner for the PREAMP II-S, the new amplifier succeeds the Nagra Classic AMP, which was introduced in 2015 and became one of the company’s most successful high-end audio products.
The AMP II-S retains the design philosophy of its predecessor, with Nagra focusing on natural tonal balance, three-dimensional imaging and musical transparency, while introducing improvements to the power supply, input stage, circuit layout, thermal management and mechanical construction.
At the heart of the amplifier is a new linear power supply incorporating a custom-made 800 VA potted transformer. According to Nagra, this provides increased energy reserves and greater voltage headroom, allowing the amplifier to handle demanding musical passages with improved dynamic authority.
The AMP II-S delivers 120 W rms per channel into 8 ohms, with the first 10 W operating in Class A. A single pair of MOSFET output transistors per channel maintains a relatively simple output-stage architecture.
The amplifier also incorporates a new input board derived from Nagra’s Reference AMP, designed to improve channel separation and spatial precision. Revised circuit layouts, carefully selected internal wiring and optically isolated controls contribute to the overall design.
Mechanical engineering has also received considerable attention. A substantial CNC-machined heatsink provides thermal stability while helping to minimise unwanted vibrations, while a specially developed transformer suspension reduces the transmission of mechanical vibration through the chassis.
The AMP II-S retains Nagra’s distinctive front-panel MODULOMETER, a visual link to the company’s professional recording heritage, which stretches back to the introduction of Stefan Kudelski’s first Nagra recorder in 1951.
For specialist Hi-Fi retailers, the arrival of the AMP II-S provides another opportunity to demonstrate the continuing appeal of traditional high-end separates in a market increasingly populated by integrated streaming and amplification solutions. At this level, careful system matching, loudspeaker selection and dedicated listening demonstrations remain important elements of the purchasing process.
The amplifier made its world premiere in the UK at The Happening, organised by distributor Absolute Sounds, at Haycock Manor Hotel on October 17–18.
Its international introduction continues with appearances at Audio Video Show 2026 in Warsaw and the Tokyo International Audio Show, both taking place from October 23–25. Further demonstrations are planned through Nagra’s international dealer and distributor network.
The Nagra AMP II-S is available through UK distributor Absolute Sounds, with a recommended retail price of £21,998 including VAT.
The new model joins the PREAMP II-S as Nagra continues to expand its Series II family, positioning the range as a bridge between the company’s established Classic products and the engineering developments found in its more ambitious HD and Reference electronics.
