Icon Audio Stereo 40 MkIV Signature Integrated Amplifier

By Dick Olsher

Elite!

Icon Audio’s David Shaw tells me that the Stereo 40, Icon’s very first amplifier introduction in 2001, was inspired by the Leak Point One amplifiers, as well as various U.S. and Mullard designs. Being relatively inexpensive and successful enough, it gave Icon Audio the impetus to develop many other models. Yet, as David explains, the Stereo 40 always remained at the core of what the company does: Offer good value for the money and try to be better than the competition.

The Stereo 40 follows the tried-and-true approach of an Ultralinear (UL) push-pull output stage with the output transformer tapped at 40%. Both KT88 and EL34 versions are available, but the KT88 version appears to be more popular. The amp is switchable to triode mode via a toggle switch on the front panel, though as a safety precaution it is recommended that the amp be switched to standby mode before doing so. A tape-monitor loop is included, as is a motorized volume pot with a basic remote control. T…