Mogwai SE - Rev3
Best versatile tube amplifier for audiophiles who enjoy customizing their sound.
The Mogwai SE Rev 3 is a hybrid amplifier designed for both headphone and loudspeaker use, offering a classic tube sound with modern enhancements. It features single-ended Class A operation with zero feedback, powered by custom-wound output transformers for excellent frequency response. This version includes native XLR inputs with transformer conversion to SE and XLR outputs for better pairing with modern headphones. The upgraded power transformer reduces noise, and the new PCB enhances performance and reliability. It supports a wide variety of input and output tubes, making it versatile for different listening preferences.
$4500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
53
/ 807
#53 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+222%
Above average
Input impedance
10
/ K ohm with alps pot
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking natural, detailed, and immersive tube-driven sound
- Collectors valuing artisanal craftsmanship and long-term hardware reliability
- Listeners needing a flexible hub for headphones and efficient speakers
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over premium hand-built performance
- Users preferring low-maintenance gear without heat or tube replacement needs
- Owners of power-hungry, low-sensitivity speakers requiring high-wattage amplification
Performance breakdown
Tube Rolling Versatility
The 9-pin front end offers nearly endless sonic customization options.
Signal Purity
Zero feedback design preserves the natural, organic character of your music.
Connectivity Flexibility
Transformer-coupled XLR inputs bridge the gap between modern and vintage gear.
Noise Floor
Upgraded power transformers keep background hiss impressively low for tube amplification.
Maintenance Simplicity
Automatic cathode bias makes swapping tubes a stress-free, plug-and-play experience.
Output Versatility
Dedicated taps provide excellent power delivery for both headphones and loudspeakers.
Key Specs
Input impedance
10K ohm with alps pot
Input Sensitivity
2.6V for full power out with input transformers
Noise
50uv
THD+N
0.13% @ 1watt
Gain
20 dB (12AX7)
Frequency Response
7 Hz to 20 kHz (-3dB)
Wood Chassis dimensions
14.75" Wide x 10.75" Deep
Features
- Hybrid design for both headphone and loudspeaker use.
- Zero feedback circuit for classic SET sound.
- Custom-wound, ultra-high-quality output transformers for extended frequency response.
- Dedicated 32-ohm and 8-ohm taps for headphones and loudspeakers.
- Native XLR inputs with transformer conversion to SE.
- Wired for XLR output to better pair with modern headphones.
- Upgraded power transformer for improved regulation and noise reduction.
- Wide variety of input and output tubes supported for extensive tube rolling.
- Cathode bias/automatic bias allows for easy tube changes without adjustment.
- The 9-pin front end allows vastly increased options for tube rolling.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Mogwai SE Rev3 for its exceptional build quality and sophisticated design. Owners frequently highlight the amplifier's robust construction and the meticulous attention to detail, which contributes to a premium feel. The aesthetic appeal is often noted as a significant draw, blending seamlessly into various listening environments. This combination of superior craftsmanship and elegant presentation establishes the Mogwai SE Rev3 as a highly regarded piece of audio equipment.
Know before you buy
Yes, the amplifier is designed as a hybrid unit. It features dedicated 32-ohm taps for headphones and 8-ohm taps for loudspeakers, allowing you to switch between them easily.
No, the amplifier uses a cathode bias design, which is also known as automatic bias. This allows you to swap tubes without needing to manually measure or adjust the bias settings.
The Mogwai SE Rev 3 features native XLR inputs that use transformer conversion to single-ended, ensuring compatibility with balanced sources. It also includes XLR outputs, which are wired to provide better pairing and signal integrity for modern headphones.
The zero-feedback design is intended to provide a classic Single-Ended Triode (SET) sound. This typically results in a more natural, organic, and harmonically rich presentation compared to amplifiers that use global feedback.
With a noise floor of 50uv, the Mogwai SE is designed to be quiet, but it is best suited for headphones that benefit from the power and warmth of a tube amplifier. If you are using extremely sensitive IEMs, you may want to ensure your source chain is equally quiet.
The Rev 3 is highly versatile, supporting a wide variety of input and output tubes. The inclusion of a 9-pin front end significantly expands your options for tube rolling, allowing you to fine-tune the sonic character to your preference.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.