Is Black Ice Audio’s POWERFUL F22 V2 The Audiophile’s Choice？
United States of Analog | September 19, 2024
🎙️ Early Video Analysis
What is this video about?
This video is a review of the Black Ice Audio F22 V2 tube integrated amplifier. The host is covering the amplifier’s features, specifications, build quality, and providing background context about his experience with tube amplifiers dating back to the 1990s.
What gear, products, or brands are discussed?
Black Ice Audio F22 V2
- Price: $2,500 to $3,500+ depending on setup [00:02:58]
- Power: Up to 85 watts per channel (host’s KT88 version: 75 watts) [00:00:29, 00:00:35]
- Tubes: Two EL34s or two KT88 output tubes (host has Savane KT88 tube set) [00:00:29, 00:00:35]
- Features: Four input channels, subwoofer out, stereo record out, four 8-ohm speaker taps, headphone output [00:00:51, 00:01:06]
- Weight: Over 30 pounds [00:02:50]
- Circuitry designed by Jim Fosgate [00:02:46]
Jolita 202
- Host’s previous tube amp from the mid-90s, still in use [00:03:53]
- 40 watts per channel with four EL34 tubes [00:04:02]
- More difficult tube biasing process compared to the F22 [00:02:16]
Savane tubes
- Host mentions getting new EL34s for upcoming tube rolling video [00:02:30]
What are the host’s main opinions or takes so far?
- The F22 is “heavy and solid” like previous Jolita amps [00:00:41]
- Appreciates the simplified tube biasing process compared to his old Jolita [00:01:45, 00:02:16]
- Notes that Black Ice sells “excellent standalone” phono preamp models [00:01:00]
- Mentions he will address the supplied metal remote later, suggesting potential concerns [00:01:41]
Were there any strong recommendations or warnings to viewers?
Recommendation:
- Host recommends subscribing and hitting the notification bell for upcoming tube rolling video [00:02:37]
Were there any funny moments, strong opinions, or memorable quotes?
Memorable quotes/moments:
- “I don’t know why you wouldn’t listen to headphones unless I guess you were queuing up records or something. Maybe DJs need that feature.” [00:01:18] – commenting on the speaker mute function
- Nostalgic description of the mid-90s: “Remember the mid 90s? The WWW thing was starting to happen… It was the dawn of a bunch of new technologies and there was fun stuff too going on like Nirvana and MTV and Pulp Fiction” [00:03:06]
Summary
The video opens with the host introducing the Black Ice Audio F22 V2 tube integrated amplifier, a substantial piece of equipment featuring either EL34 or KT88 output tubes capable of delivering up to 85 watts per channel. His particular unit uses Savane KT88 tubes rated at 75 watts per channel. The amplifier is manufactured in China at a Black Ice-owned factory with final quality control performed in the USA, and it lacks a built-in phono preamp, though the company makes excellent standalone models.
The host particularly appreciates the simplified tube biasing process, which uses a backlit meter and small blue tool to set each tube to the recommended level of 60. This is a significant improvement over his previous Jolita amplifier, which required placing the unit on its head and using a voltmeter with very steady hands. The F22 features a clean glass front panel with touch-sensitive controls, four input channels marked with Roman numerals, and was designed with input from the renowned Jim Fosgate.
The review takes on a nostalgic tone as the host reflects on purchasing his first tube amplifier, a Jolita 202, back in the mid-1990s during the era of emerging internet technology, cell phones becoming mainstream, and when CDs still dominated the music landscape. That silver-faced Jolita, with its four EL34 tubes producing 40 watts per channel, remains in service behind him today. The host hints at upcoming content, including a tube rolling video featuring new EL34s from Savane, while noting that the F22’s pricing ranges from $2,500 to $3,500 depending on configuration.
⏱️ Mid-Video Analysis
Gear, Products, and Brands Discussed
[00:05:08] Black Ice Audio (evolved from Jolida brand)
[00:05:39] Black Ice Audio F-22 V2 tube amplifier
[00:05:49] Tube options: Electro Harmonix, Gold Lion, Tung Sol, and Savane
[00:06:33] MoFi Studio Deck turntable with Master Tracker cartridge
[00:06:40] Budget Schiit Mani phono preamp
[00:06:42] Parkes Audio Waxwing DSP phono preamp
[00:06:47] Black Ice Audio Fusion 9 Mark III phono preamp ($900)
[00:06:55] Klipsch Forte 4 speakers, Zoo DWX speakers
[00:07:02] JM Labs/Focal Chorus 706 bookshelf speakers
[00:07:18] Macintosh MA-250 200W tube hybrid amplifier
[00:07:40] REL Classic 98 10-inch subwoofer
[00:08:19] KEF LS-50 Meta speakers
Host’s Key Findings, Verdicts, and Opinions
[00:06:01] Operation is satisfying and gives confidence in maximizing performance with analog/tube amp vibes
[00:06:26] Amp was completely quiet with no background noise from tubes
[00:07:11] Sound described as “lush and warm but not lacking authority in the dynamics department”
[00:07:57] F-22 was clearer than his Mac hybrid amplifier
[00:08:01] While warm, it doesn’t compromise on detail with Savane glass tubes
[00:08:07] Not analytical or neutral, but that’s not expected from tube amps
[00:08:17] Has enough power even for inefficient speakers
[00:09:04] Allows each speaker to display their unique personality without suppression
Listening Tests and Sound Quality Observations
[00:07:19] Compared to Macintosh MA-250, the F-22 had “more of that punch, more of that excitement and drama” especially for rock records and Blue Note jazz
[00:08:12] Described sound as “easy like a Sunday morning”
[00:09:18] Ideal pairing was with Zoo DWX speakers
[00:09:25] 80% of listening was rock music “in that sweet spot between Yacht Rock and Death Metal”
Comparisons to Other Gear
[00:07:18] Direct comparison to Macintosh MA-250 200 watt tube hybrid – F-22 had more punch and excitement
[00:07:57] F-22 described as clearer than the Mac hybrid while maintaining warmth
Vinyl Records, Albums, or Music Discussed
[00:07:31] Mentions listening to “favorite rock records and some of my jazz tone poets from Blue Note”
[00:09:30] Describes his listening preference as rock “in that sweet spot between Yacht Rock and Death Metal”
Audiophile Tips, Advice, or How-to Content
[00:05:58] Manual biasing with small tool for “dialing in that top meter is so satisfying”
[00:06:15] Hands-on equipment interaction creates better emotional attachment
[00:07:51] Notes that a subwoofer is not required with the F-22 but acceptable to add
[00:08:48] Explains power delivery concept – like a race car delivering power to the ground, the F-22 delivers power efficiently to speakers
Memorable Quotes or Strong Takes
[00:08:12] “The F-22 was easy like a Sunday morning”
[00:08:56] “Like a good race car, the F-22 can deliver the power to the ground or in this case, the speakers”
[00:09:30] “That’s where I live” (referring to rock music between Yacht Rock and Death Metal)
Summary
This portion of the transcript covers the host’s experience testing the Black Ice Audio F-22 V2 tube amplifier after meeting the company at the Southwest Audio Fest in Dallas. The host discusses his extensive listening setup, which included multiple phono preamps, various speakers including Klipsch Forte 4s and Zoo DWX models, and his MoFi turntable setup. He emphasizes the amplifier’s quiet operation, satisfying manual biasing procedure, and the emotional connection that comes from hands-on tube amp operation.
The sound quality assessment reveals the F-22 V2 delivers a characteristically warm tube sound while maintaining authority and dynamics. In direct comparison to his reference Macintosh MA-250 tube hybrid, the host found the F-22 offered more punch and excitement, particularly beneficial for his preferred rock music and Blue Note jazz recordings. He noted the amplifier’s clarity and detail retrieval, especially when paired with Savane glass tubes, while acknowledging it’s not designed to be analytical or neutral in character.
The host concludes this section by highlighting the amplifier’s versatility with different speaker types and his particular satisfaction with the Zoo DWX pairing, which explains why Black Ice and Zoo frequently demonstrate together at audio shows. His discussion with Black Ice engineer Jared reinforced his impression of the company’s focus on efficient power delivery, comparing the amplifier to a well-designed race car that effectively transfers power where it’s needed most.
🏁 Final Thoughts & Verdict
What gear, products, or brands are discussed in this final portion?
- Black Ice Audio F22 V2 – Main amplifier being reviewed [00:12:53]
- Klipsch Forte and DWX speakers – Described as great rock and roll speakers [00:09:33]
- Zoo speakers – Compared favorably to the Klipsch models [00:09:46]
- Fusion 9 phono stage – Guided by Mr. Fosgate, produced “amazing results” [00:10:31]
- Waxwing DSP Pre – Recently reviewed phono preamp with multiple settings [00:10:48]
- Jolita 202 – Host’s reference amp, compared to the F22 [00:11:34]
- McIntosh systems – Used for price comparison [00:13:28]
- Prima Luna – Another price comparison reference [00:13:31]
What is the host’s final verdict or conclusion?
The host gives a highly positive verdict on the Black Ice Audio F22 V2. At [00:12:52], he calls it “fabulous” and describes it as a “substantial, powerful, head-turning big boy component” that “may just entertain you for decades” [00:13:37]. He emphasizes that it delivers tube sound and aesthetic at a price point “well under the cost of a Mac system, and maybe even of a good Prima Luna” [00:13:28].
Were there any final recommendations — buy, skip, or consider?
Strong Consider/Buy recommendation: The host concludes by telling viewers to “Look into that F22” [00:13:51] and states that if matched with the right components, “you may not want for more for many years to come” [00:12:23]. He positions it as excellent value compared to more expensive alternatives.
Any final tips, caveats, or advice for viewers?
- Component matching is crucial: “Match it with the right components, and you may not want for more for many years to come” [00:12:23]
- Contact the manufacturer: “I’ll direct you to my good friends at Black Ice. They are very easy to communicate with, and they are very eager to talk to you about their products” [00:13:02]
- Accept the design quirks: Regarding the large logo, “don’t worry about it, you’ll get used to that big logo” [00:12:11]
How did the video wrap up?
The video wrapped up with a traditional YouTube outro format. The host signed off with “I’ll see you next time on the United States of Analog” [00:13:47], then directed viewers to click on YouTube’s suggested next video, playfully encouraging them multiple times to “Click on it” [00:14:07].
Any memorable closing quotes or strong final opinions?
- “That’s it. That’s the enthusiast layman’s look at the fabulous Black Ice Audio F22 V2” [00:12:52]
- “The Black Ice Audio F22 still feels like a substantial, powerful, head-turning big boy component, and like my Jolita 202, may just entertain you for decades” [00:13:37]
- Humorous self-awareness: “Hey, I got a nitpick, right? Or I might lose your trust, and I don’t want to do that” [00:12:47]
Summary
In this final portion, the host completes his comprehensive evaluation of the Black Ice Audio F22 V2 by discussing speaker pairings and addressing potential downsides. He found that while both Klipsch speakers performed well, the Zoo speakers provided better overall performance with the F22, offering more finesse, detail, and soundstage width. The Fusion 9 phono stage delivered excellent results, though he also enjoyed experimenting with the Waxwing DSP Pre, despite acknowledging that “analog purists are furious right now.”
The host then addresses the amp’s few shortcomings in a balanced manner. His main criticisms include the oversized backlit logo (which he jokes about referencing current cultural terms), the lack of tone controls and multiple subwoofer outputs, and a somewhat crude metal remote that feels prototype-like. However, he frames these as minor nitpicks, emphasizing his need to provide balanced criticism to maintain viewer trust.
The review concludes with a strong endorsement of the F22 V2, positioning it as excellent value that delivers authentic tube sound and aesthetics at a price point significantly below premium brands like McIntosh and Prima Luna. The host emphasizes the importance of proper component matching and encourages viewers to contact Black Ice directly for more information, praising their communication and willingness to discuss their design philosophy. His final assessment presents the F22 as a substantial, powerful component that could provide decades of enjoyment, similar to his own long-term experience with the Jolita 202.
Analysis generated from archived transcripts. Channel: United States of Analog — hi-fi gear reviews, vinyl, and audiophile culture.
