Woo Audio
Woo Audio WA5-LE (2nd Generation)
Best tube amplifier for audiophiles seeking an immersive, transparent listening experience.
The WA5-LE (Lite Edition) is a single-ended triode Class A tube amplifier, designed as a dedicated headphone amplifier. It shares the captivating sound quality of the acclaimed WA5, built around the audiophile-favorite 300B vacuum tube for exceptional transparency. This amplifier offers an immersive listening experience, akin to a live performance. It features user-selectable headphone impedance and level controls, with XLR and RCA inputs, and both XLR and 1/4" headphone outputs. The chassis is crafted from anodized aluminum, available in black or silver.
$4499.00
More WA5 Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
229
/ 766
#229 in Headphone Amplifiers
Price vs Category Average
+222%
Above average
Tubes
6723002542
/ SN x , B x , UG x
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking an immersive and natural listening experience
- Owners of power-hungry, high-impedance flagship headphones
- Design-conscious listeners wanting a sophisticated, heirloom-quality centerpiece
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over luxury performance
- Users preferring low-maintenance, cool-running solid-state equipment
- Listeners with limited desk space or minimalist setups
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
The 300B tubes deliver an incredibly lifelike and nuanced acoustic presentation.
Build Integrity
Dual-chassis construction and point-to-point wiring ensure exceptional long-term durability.
Impedance Versatility
User-selectable settings effortlessly drive a wide range of premium headphone loads.
Component Quality
Premium Mundorf capacitors elevate the signal path for superior harmonic richness.
Operational Complexity
Tube maintenance and dual-chassis footprint require a dedicated, patient audiophile approach.
Connectivity Options
Balanced and single-ended inputs provide flexible integration for high-end source gear.
Key Specs
Tubes
6SN7 x 2, 300B x 2, 5U4G x 2
PTFE tube sockets
Single-ended triode, Class A
Transformer-coupled point-to-point wiring
Pseudo-dual power supply, dual chassis design
User-selectable HI/LO headphones
User-selectable HI/LO headphone impedance
User-selectable HI/LO headphone level
Features
- Single-ended triode Class A tube amplifier
- Utilizes the audiophile-favorite 300B vacuum tube
- Provides exceptional transparency for a live performance feel
- User-selectable headphone impedance and level
- Transformer-coupled point-to-point wiring
- Dual chassis design for power supply and amplifier
- Available in standard or premium parts construction
- Designed and assembled in New York, USA
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Woo Audio WA5 LE 2nd Generation for its exceptional sound quality and exquisite build. Many describe the audio as incredibly rich, detailed, and immersive, elevating their listening experience significantly. The amplifier's robust construction and elegant design also receive high marks, often noted as a beautiful centerpiece for any audio setup. Users frequently highlight its ability to bring out the best in various headphones, making it a cherished component for serious audiophiles.
Know before you buy
The dual-chassis design physically separates the power supply from the sensitive audio circuitry. This isolation significantly reduces electromagnetic interference and noise, resulting in a cleaner, more transparent sound profile.
Yes. The WA5-LE features user-selectable impedance and level controls, allowing you to optimize the output for a wide range of headphone sensitivities and loads. It includes both a 4-pin XLR balanced output and a standard 1/4" jack.
The premium parts upgrade replaces standard components with high-end Mundorf MCap Supreme Silver/Gold coupling capacitors and Mundorf MLytic HV electrolytic capacitors. These upgrades are designed to further refine signal clarity and improve the overall sonic texture.
No, the amplifier features an autobias circuit. As long as you are using compatible tubes, the system will automatically adjust the bias, making tube rolling or replacement straightforward.
No, the WA5-LE is designed for global voltage compatibility. It supports input voltages ranging from 100V to 240V without the need for an external step-up or step-down converter.
Because it uses a dual-chassis design, you will need to accommodate two separate units, each measuring 12" (H) x 9" (W) x 17" (D). You should also ensure there is sufficient vertical clearance for the vacuum tubes and proper ventilation for heat dissipation.
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$4499