AVM MA 30.3 MK2

With the MA 30.3, AVM Audio continues one of its most established mono power amplifier lines. This model is the direct successor to the legendary M3 Class A/AB mono power amplifier, which for many years served as a sonic benchmark in international amplifier design. The origins of this development date back to the mid-1980s, when the M1 emerged from initial designs – and AVM was finally founded in 1986.

The M3 replaced the M1 in the early 1990s and was manufactured in several evolutionary stages until 2011. To this day, it remains one of AVM's most produced mono power amplifiers. With the MA 30.3, the manufacturer now presents the 14th generation of this amplifier platform – incorporating all development and manufacturing experience gained since 1986.

Circuit design and power amplification

The MA 30.3 operates in Class A/AB technology and delivers 300 watts into 4 ohms. The amplifier layout continues to follow the proven principle of a MOS-FET output stage design around a high-performance main transformer. This concept ensures high current delivery, stable load control, and precise signal processing, even with demanding speaker loads.

In the current evolutionary stage, key circuit details from the award-winning models of the AVM OVATION series have been adopted. Modern components and optimized layout structures – comparable to those of the AVM flagship power amplifiers SA 8.3 and MA 8.3 – enable even lower distortion, improved dynamic reserves, and stable impulse control.

Power supply architecture and power supply

Particular attention is paid to the power supply. A stabilized power supply unit with a 550 VA power transformer forms the basis for a reliable power supply. The total filter capacitance of over 40,000 µF ensures high voltage stability and minimizes ripple.

For further optimization, the front end and power amplifier in the MA 30.3 are equipped with separate power supplies. This consistent separation increases the lack of feedback between the amplifier stages and improves load stability, especially with complex impedance curves.

Automation and protection mechanisms

All relevant protection functions are fully automated and integrated. Protection circuits against DC voltage, overtemperature, and short circuits ensure safe operation even under high power demands.

Several power-on modes are available for system integration: automatic operation, permanent operation, and trigger control (on/off). This allows the MA 30.3 to be flexibly integrated into a wide variety of system configurations.

A special feature is the AIR (AVM Intelligent Remote) function. When used with compatible AVM preamplifiers – such as the PA 30.3 or PA 8.3 – the power amplifier can be switched on and off without a separate trigger cable. The necessary control signal is transmitted via the existing RCA or XLR connection, reducing installation effort and simplifying system integration.

Connectivity options and features

The MA 30.3 features both a balanced XLR and an unbalanced RCA input. This allows for optimal adaptation to different preamplifier designs.

High-quality bi-wiring speaker terminals allow for the separate connection of the high-frequency and low-frequency sections of suitable speakers. Standby power consumption is less than 1 watt, thus meeting current energy efficiency requirements.

Design and manufacturing

The MA 30.3's housing is made of painted sheet steel, providing a mechanically stable base for the massive transformers and the sensitive amplifier electronics. The brushed aluminum front panel's design is inspired by both current EVOLUTION series devices and classic AVM mono power amplifiers.

Like all models in the 30.3 series, the MA 30.3 is entirely developed and manufactured at AVM's factory in Malsch, Baden-Württemberg. The transfer of current circuit technologies from the OVATION and EVOLUTION series to the 30.3 series is carried out under strict quality standards. Repeated checks during all production steps, as well as a multi-day break-in period for each individual unit, ensure long-term reliability and consistent performance.

TECHNICAL DATA

• Class A/AB Mono Power Amplifier
• 300 watts at 4 ohms
• MOSFET output stage design
• 550 VA power transformer
• Over 40,000 µF filter capacity
• Separate power supplies for front end and power amplifier
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA input
• Bi-wiring speaker terminals
• Automatic protection circuits
• Automatic, permanent and trigger power-on modes
• AIR (AVM Intelligent Remote) without a separate trigger cable
• Standby power consumption < 1 watt
• Production in Malsch, Germany