Woo Audio WA22

The Woo Audio WA22 (2nd Generation) is a fully balanced, all-tube headphone amplifier and preamplifier, a desktop reference designed for demanding headphones and listeners who want transformer-coupled tube amplification with true XLR balanced signal path from input to output. Originally introduced in 2009 and updated to the 2nd generation in 2018, the WA22 remains one of Woo's most enduring designs for its combination of build quality, power, and musical authority. Designed and assembled in New York.

Type and Technology

Fully balanced all-tube Class A headphone amplifier and preamplifier. Transformer-coupled, point-to-point wired circuit with a pseudo-dual power supply. Tube complement: 2x 6SN7 driver tubes, 2x 6080 power tubes, 1x 5U4G rectifier tube, self-biasing. PTFE tube sockets. ALPS RK27 4-channel balanced smooth potentiometer. Phase splitter for use with unbalanced source components. Hi/Lo impedance setting for matching headphone load. XLR balanced input and RCA input. Headphone outputs: dual 3-pin XLR (left/right), 4-pin XLR balanced, and 6.35mm single-ended. XLR balanced preamplifier output (less than 50 ohms output impedance) for integration with power amplifiers. Up to 1.5W per channel at 32 ohms, recommended for power-demanding headphones. Designed and assembled in New York. Three-year limited warranty.

Sound Character

Warm, spacious, and tonally authoritative, the 6SN7 driver and 6080 power tube combination is a classic pairing that produces a wide, enveloping soundstage with excellent inner detail and a natural, smooth top end. The transformer coupling adds body and a sense of physical weight to music that solid-state amplifiers rarely replicate. The WA22 is particularly well-suited to high-impedance headphones from Sennheiser, Beyerdynamic, and similar designers where the tube power stage drives the load with maximum tonal character.

Build and Finish

7" H x 12" W x 10.5" D. Anodized aluminum chassis in black or silver. 25 lbs. Designed and assembled in New York.

Best For

Audiophiles who want a fully balanced all-tube headphone amplifier with genuine power output, point-to-point wiring, and the ability to also function as a tube preamplifier for a loudspeaker system.

What's in the Box

• Woo Audio WA22 (2nd Gen) headphone amplifier/preamplifier
• 6080 vacuum tubes (x2)
• 6SN7 vacuum tubes (x2)
• 5U4G (5U3C) rectifier tube (x1)
• Quick start guide

Specifications

What Reviewers Say

Z Reviews puts the Woo Audio WA22 through its paces in this hands on look at the balanced tube amplifier and its features.