Audio Resurgence Kraken AR8A

Audio Resurgence Kraken AR8A – power amplifier

The Audio Resurgence Kraken AR8A is a fully discrete Class A power amplifier, hand-built in the United Kingdom. It completes the Kraken separates system alongside the Kraken AR7A preamplifier — a combination that offers greater flexibility and resolution than the Kraken AR6A integrated amplifier. Both were designed by the same hands that built the original Alchemist Kraken: Andy Light and Glen Gayle of Audio Resurgence.

The Original Circuit, Properly Finished

Glen Gayle's approach has not changed since Alchemist: short signal paths, discrete components, and no gratuitous negative feedback. What has changed are the heatsinks — substantially larger than the original, allowing the AR8A to sustain Class A operation further into its power envelope. The result is an amplifier that handles transients with precision whilst retaining the tonal density that makes Class A worth choosing in the first place.

External Linear Power Supply — No Shortcuts

The AR8A is powered by an external linear power supply, available in Single or Dual configuration. Removing the supply from the amplifier chassis eliminates transformer-induced noise from the signal path entirely. The Single PSU handles everyday use without compromise; the Dual PSU provides separate rails for an even lower noise floor and greater dynamic headroom. Switch-mode supplies do not feature in any Audio Resurgence product.

Built to Match, Built to Last

The AR8A shares its chassis profile with the AR7A and AR6A — same aluminium enclosure, same heatsink aesthetic, same industrial restraint. Every unit is hand-assembled in Hertfordshire with individually selected components. There is no production line here. The slightly shallower depth compared to the AR6A and AR7A reflects the AR8A's output-stage layout, whilst keeping the visual match across the Kraken range intact.

Key Specifications

• Type: power amplifier
• Class: fully discrete Class A
• Output power: >50 W RMS into 8 ohms
• Input sensitivity: 1 V for maximum output
• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 64 kHz (−3 dB at 100 kHz)
• Distortion at 15 V / 1 kHz: <1% THD
• Residual noise: <1 mV
• Power supply: external linear PSU (Single or Dual)
• Peak consumption: 140 W
• Chassis dimensions: 302 × 280 × 89 mm
• Chassis weight: 3.75 kg (without PSU)
• Origin: United Kingdom

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the AR8A and the AR6A integrated amplifier?

The AR8A is a power amplifier only and requires a preamplifier such as the AR7A. The AR6A combines both functions in a single chassis. Separating the two stages typically lowers the noise floor and allows each component to be upgraded independently.

What is the difference between the Single PSU and the Dual PSU?

The Single PSU is the standard supply included with the AR8A. The Dual PSU provides two separate rails — one per channel — delivering a quieter background, greater dynamic precision and improved channel separation.

Is this the same amplifier as the original Alchemist Kraken?

It shares the same circuit philosophy and the same designers. The AR8A is not a reissue — it is a continuation, with larger heatsinks and modern manufacturing bringing the original concept fully to fruition.