CAD-120S MkII

Name: CAD-120S MkII
Brand: Cary Audio

classic valve design

Stereo valve power amplifier by Cary Audio, switchable between triode and ultralinear modes.

Price, selected version, availability and estimated lead time are confirmed individually before any order.

Discuss purchase and listening

Catalogue information verified on the 19 June 2026. Official Cary Audio page.

Summary

The CAD-120S MkII is the stereo push-pull amplifier from the CAD series, switchable between ultralinear (120 W/ch) and triode (60 W/ch) modes, designed to pair with SLP preamplifiers.

Key Points

Stereo valve power stage with push-pull configuration.
Switchable operation from the front panel between ultralinear Class A/B and triode Class A.
Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs.
Stereo amplifier: both channels in a single unit.
Eight KT88 output valves with input and driver stages documented by Cary Audio.
A common pairing with previous SLP-05 or SLP-98 in stereo valve systems.

Valves
Push-pull
Ultralinear / triode
XLR and RCA inputs

Product images

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Purchasing, listening and delivery

Ordering and system matching

Ask about the selected version and matching with your amplifier, sources and room. Supply arrangements will be confirmed in the quotation. An enquiry does not confirm a sale.

Listening sessions and demonstrations

You can request a listening session by appointment at our Barcelona office (Carrer de Modolell, 57). When we arrange the appointment we confirm which equipment is available to hear, along with the date and time.

Home demonstrations are not offered for this product.

Delivery and setup

Delivery, its cost and the estimated timing are confirmed in writing in your quotation, for your delivery address and before you accept it.

Installation and setup can be requested as an additional service. We assess feasibility and quote it separately.

Planning your system

The CAD-120S MkII is a power amplifier, so it needs a preamplifier or a source with suitable volume control. Cary specifies RCA and XLR inputs, 60 W per channel in triode and 120 W per channel in ultralinear mode. Tell us your preamp, speakers and available ventilation space; confirm the mains version and output configuration before connecting the system.

Read the system selection guide · Manufacturer information

Editorial Reference

Model context

Position within the Cary range

Stereo valve power amplifier with switchable push-pull operation between ultralinear (120 W/ch) and triode (60 W/ch).

Why choose this model?

When seeking switchable UL/triode stereo valve power within a single chassis, without transitioning to SET monoblocks.

For which system does it make sense?

Pair with a line preamplifier (e.g., SLP-05 or SLP-98) in medium to high-power stereo systems.
Switch between higher ultralinear power and a more linear triode mode.
Systems with balanced and RCA inputs.

Differences compared to similar models

Stereo in a chassis compared to the CAD-805RS and CAD-211FE monoblocks. MkII version distinct from the original CAD-120S; offering more power and switching than the SLI integrated models, but without an integrated preamplifier.

Architecture and Design Decisions

Eight KT88 output tubes with two 6SN7 input tubes and two driver tubes; switchable between ultralinear (120 W/ch) and triode (60 W/ch) modes. Balanced XLR and RCA inputs at 100 kΩ; flat response at 1 W from 17 Hz to 25 kHz.

Compatibility and Use

Previous SLP-05, SLP-98, or VT-500 with external preamplifier. Balanced and RCA inputs.

Official specification limits

Manual published as CAD-120S (not MkII in the PDF name). Does not include preamplifier or phono stage.

Related Technologies: Valves and single-ended triode .

Technical Specifications

Specifications

Output power: 120 W per channel (ultralinear); 60 W per channel (triode)
Topology: Stereo push-pull valve power amplifier, switchable between ultralinear and triode
Valves: Output: 8 × KT88. Input: 2 × 6SN7; driver: 2 × 6SN7
Frequency response: 17 Hz–25 kHz (a 1 W)
Signal-to-noise ratio: −80 dB
Gain: 28 dB
Sensitivity: 1,24 V
Configuration: Stereo (both channels in a single chassis)
Ultralinear mode: Push-pull Class AB
Triode mode: Triode-switchable push-pull

Technical Specifications

Connectivity

Inputs: Balanced XLR ×1 and RCA ×1 (both 100 kΩ)

Technical Specifications

Design and Construction

Dimensions: 17 × 8 × 14 inches (W × H × D)
Weight: 65 lbs

Specifications compiled from official Cary Audio sources, reviewed on 19 June 2026. Unverified data is not published; unavailable fields are omitted.

Documentation

Official Manuals and Resources

Links to PDFs and guides published by Cary Audio on caryaudio.com. They open in a new tab.

ManualOwner's Manual (CAD-120S)
The official PDF is titled CAD-120S; it covers the switchable UL/triode stereo stage.

Technologies

Engineering Behind This Equipment

Valves and single-ended triode

Valve design is the foundational heritage of Cary Audio. The brand maintains a line of triode equipment in single-ended configuration, in class A, which defines much of its character and sonic identity.

In the press

What the critics have said

“the sheer musicality and vibrancy of these Cary components”
StereoNET Australia · Peter Familari · 2018

Brief excerpts from specialised press reviews, in their original language with a link to the source. They reflect the opinion of each publication.

Launch context

Origin and Journey

The CAD-120S amplifier was introduced in 2007; the MkII version arrived around 2011-2012.

Be part of the CAD Series — Classic Valves.

Recommended Applications

Where it fits

High fidelity

Power Amplifiers. For those who already possess a preamplifier and are seeking a power amplifier that defines the character and control of the system.

Within the Cary catalogue

Its position in the range

The CAD-120S MkII is part of Power Amplifiers in the Cary Audio catalogue.

Families: Power Amplifiers
Design family: classic valve design
Series: CAD Series — Classic Valves

Reference

CAD-120S MkII

Summary

Gallery