Tidal Ferios G2 Monoblock: A Stunning Evolution in Power Amplification

Explore how the Tidal Ferios G2 monoblock amps redefine audio power and precision with groundbreaking upgrades and timeless craftsmanship.

A New Chapter in Tidal’s Amplifier Legacy

When it comes to audiophile gear, the label "Mk II" can sometimes feel like a marketing gimmick—a way to dress up minor tweaks as major leaps. But not at Tidal Audio. Hearing about the Tidal Ferios G2 monoblock amplifier, I was immediately curious if this iteration truly earned its “Generation 2” badge or if it was just a fresh coat of paint on an old favorite.

Having lived with the original Ferios monoblocks since 2017, these amps have been my audiovisual workhorses—delivering power, clarity, and a reliability that made them indispensable in my listening room. So when the G2 showed up for review, courtesy of Tidal’s brand ambassador Doug White, the stage was set for a true showdown between the veteran and the newcomer.

Bigger, Heavier, and Surprisingly Different

At first glance, the specs tell part of the story: the G2 monoblocks are larger—six inches longer, 30 pounds heavier—with beefier energy storage (500,000µF vs. 410,000µF) and a boost in power output (1140 watts into 2 ohms compared to the original’s 700+ watts). But these numbers alone don’t do justice to the sonic leap I heard the moment I powered them on.

A quick chat with Tidal’s founder, Jörn Janczak, at High End 2025 in Munich revealed a fascinating insight—this wasn’t just an upgrade of the original Ferios; the G2 was built on the foundation of the more luxurious Assoluta monoblocks. This explains the increased heft, size, and, most importantly, a significant jump in performance—all for only about 10% more in price. Talk about value for such high-end craftsmanship.

Craftsmanship Meets Innovation

Each G2 amplifier is a majestic presence—measuring 17.3″ wide, 12.3″ tall, and 23.6″ deep, weighing in at 140 pounds. The design language ties beautifully with Tidal’s other electronics: a glossy black acrylic faceplate accented with polished stainless-steel strips that run along the top and down the center. A single, subtle red indicator light signals power status, while the on/off switch is cleverly concealed beneath the stainless-steel strip—sleek and understated.

On the back, there’s a single balanced XLR input (no unbalanced RCA here, keeping it pure and professional), robust binding posts, and a power cord socket that requires your own cable—not that Tidal skimped on quality internally.

At Munich, Janczak unveiled a version with a Plexiglas top, letting enthusiasts peek inside to marvel at the intricate multilayer circuit boards, all designed and handcrafted in-house. The dual 800VA toroidal transformers are shielded and mechanically isolated from the chassis, ensuring minimal vibration interference. Every transistor is hand-selected and meticulously matched—a testament to the painstaking attention to detail that distinguishes Tidal from the rest.

“A product at this level ‘wows’ because it’s the accumulation of little steps and a unique concept growing over 25 years.” – Jörn Janczak

Listening Experience: Power, Precision, and Grace

Plugging the G2s into my usual setup—which now features the Baetis Audio Reference 5 streamer (a pre-release gem), a Sony X1100 ES universal disc player, Tidal Contros controller/DAC, and Magico M2 loudspeakers)—was an eye-opening experience. The room, a cozy 15′ by 15′ space with 10-12 foot ceilings, became a playground for these amps to shine.

Compared to the original Ferios, the G2 brought a newfound ease to large-scale symphonic works. Despite similar power ratings (around 580W to 575W into 4 ohms), the G2’s control and “relaxation,” as Janczak puts it, made the difference. Complex pieces like Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances, Saint-Saëns’ “Organ” Symphony, and Mahler’s Third Symphony came alive with a commanding presence and clarity that demanded attention.

The bass response, often a challenge without a subwoofer, was tight and authoritative. Jazz fusion pieces featuring virtuosos like Nathan East and Brian Bromberg displayed an impressive grip on the low end, all while maintaining nimbleness—an area where many amplifiers falter unless supplemented by subs.

Detail That Dazzles

The G2’s low noise floor and refined detail retrieval were evident during A/B listening sessions. The tuba in Rachmaninoff’s brass choir stood out as a distinct voice, while subtle moments like the soft bass drum in Mahler’s Third revealed intricate rhythms usually lost in the mix. These nuances made the G2 not just a powerhouse but a master storyteller in audio form.

Speed and neutrality remained pillars of the Ferios heritage. The G2 deftly handled solo harp, harpsichord, and complex piano passages—Marc-André Hamelin’s Kaleidoscope recording was a perfect showcase. Vocalists and string instruments retained their unique timbres and emotional weight, with spatial imaging as immersive as ever.

Is It a Bargain at Its Price?

At nearly $100,000 per pair, the G2 monoblocks certainly aren’t affordable by everyday standards. But when matched against amplifiers from brands like Burmester, darTZeel, and Soulution, which often command similar or higher price tags, the Ferios G2 stands tall in terms of sheer performance and build quality.

With Tidal preparing a new flagship monoblock to replace the Assoluta, the G2 fits perfectly between the entry-level Intra stereo amp and the upcoming MA1 monoblock—offering audiophiles a compelling middle ground that blends price, power, and precision with Tidal’s signature polish.

Janczak reminds us that Tidal products are crafted for longevity and satisfaction, rarely hitting the used market because owners tend to keep them for the long haul. This iterative approach, building on small improvements over decades, is what makes their amps truly special.

Specifications & Pricing

• Type: Solid-state monoblock power amplifier
• Output Power: 295W into 8 ohms, 575W into 4 ohms, 1140W into 2 ohms
• Inputs: One balanced XLR
• Outputs: Two pairs of 5-way binding posts
• Bandwidth: 1Hz–180kHz (-0.5dB/linear)
• Dimensions: 17.3″ x 12.3″ x 23.6″
• Weight: 140 lbs. each
• Price: $95,000/pair

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a “Mk II”

In the world of high-end audio, names matter, but so does substance. The Tidal Ferios G2 monoblocks are far more than a simple “Mk II” iteration of their predecessors. They represent a leap forward in design heritage, sonic capability, and engineering excellence—a product of 25 years of relentless refinement.

If you’re chasing the perfect blend of power, detail, and tonal purity, the G2 might just be the amplifier that redefines your listening experience.

FAQ

• What makes the Ferios G2 different from the original Ferios?
  The G2 is based on the more advanced Assoluta platform, offering increased size, weight, power storage, and enhanced sonic performance.
• Does the G2 require a subwoofer for low frequencies?
  While it delivers impressive bass grip on its own, extreme low-frequency content may still benefit from a subwoofer depending on your room and preferences.
• What inputs and outputs does the Ferios G2 have?
  It features one balanced XLR input and two pairs of 5-way binding posts for speaker connections.
• How does the G2 compare price-wise to other high-end amps?
  At $95,000 per pair, it is competitive and often more affordable than other flagship amplifiers delivering similar performance.
• Is the Ferios G2 suitable for large rooms?
  Yes, it offers ample power and control to handle demanding speakers and larger listening environments with ease.

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