Canor Virtus I2

Canor Virtus I2 – valve amplifier in pure Class A with KT88 and CMT board technology

The Virtus I2 is a pure Class A push-pull integrated valve amplifier — KT88 output tubes, autobias with cathode feedback, and a relay attenuator that puts most solid-state volume controls to shame. At 2× 40 watts into 8 ohms, it will not drive everything, but what it does drive, it drives with a measured noise floor and channel tracking that belong in solid-state territory. This is Canor's Premium Line at its most uncompromising.

Canor Virtus I2 valve amplifier — relay attenuator and CMT board construction

Volume control runs through a relay attenuator with independent blocks per channel — 1dB steps, 63dB maximum attenuation, channel deviation below 0.05dB. No potentiometer drifts, no channel imbalance at low listening levels. All PCBs are machined using Canor's CMT process, reducing dielectric losses to near-air levels. The mains transformer is vacuum impregnated and encapsulated in anti-vibration compound, then enclosed in a welded steel housing — the same approach Canor uses across its reference line, and it shows in the measured signal-to-noise ratio.

Triode, ultralinear and monoblock

The KT88 tubes switch instantly between triode and ultralinear mode — triode for maximum harmonic richness at lower power, ultralinear for greater output and damping factor when the speakers demand it. Two Virtus I2 units couple via RJ45 data cable in Master/Slave mode, doubling output to 80 watts per channel without a separate preamplifier. The Voltage Stabilisation Circuit monitors mains voltage continuously and selects the correct transformer winding automatically, protecting the tubes from voltage stress and extending their service life.

Inputs and construction

Four RCA inputs and two balanced XLR inputs cover the usual sources. A fixed RCA line output allows direct connection of a powered subwoofer. Every set of output tubes undergoes a 200-hour burn-in process at Canor's factory, followed by rigorous measurement, selection and matching — a level of quality control that reflects in the consistency of the finished amplifier.

Specifications

• Power output: 2× 40W at 8Ω (stereo) / 80W per channel (monoblock)
• Topology: pure Class A, push-pull
• Valves: KT88 with autobias and cathode feedback
• Modes: triode / ultralinear (instant switching)
• Volume control: relay attenuator, 1dB steps, max. 63dB
• Channel deviation: <0.05dB
• Inputs: 4× RCA, 2× XLR
• Outputs: speaker terminals, fixed RCA line output
• Monoblock: Master/Slave via RJ45 data cable
• VSC: automatic mains voltage monitoring
• Finish: black or silver

Frequently asked questions about the Canor Virtus I2

What is the practical difference between triode and ultralinear mode?

Triode mode runs the KT88s at lower power with higher even-order harmonic content — the classic valve sound. Ultralinear mode increases output power and damping factor measurably, giving better control over more demanding loudspeakers. The switch is instant and can be made during playback.

Can the Canor Virtus I2 be used as a monoblock?

Yes — two units connect via RJ45 data cable in Master/Slave configuration, with the master unit controlling both. Output rises to 80 watts per channel, and no separate preamplifier is required.

How long do the KT88 valves last in the Canor Virtus I2?

Canor burns in every set of output tubes for 200 hours before installation, then measures, selects and matches them to strict criteria. The VSC circuit monitors mains voltage continuously and protects the tubes from overvoltage — both factors contribute to a longer and more consistent service life than most valve amplifiers offer.