Lyrebird EL84/4 Integrated Amplifier Review

Mark Gusew auditions an exciting new tube amplifier from Australia that delivers a rich, vintage-inspired sound…

Lyrebird Audio is the creation of Anthony Sawyer, founder of GrizzlyWorks High Fidelity Audio based in Adelaide, South Australia. Deeply passionate about the classic sonics of the legendary EL84 vacuum tube, Anthony saw a gap in the local hi-fi market for a well-built, affordable tube integrated amplifier that captured the magic of vintage valve sound—without compromising reliability or usability. The result? The beautifully crafted Lyrebird EL84/4.

This handcrafted, two-channel stereo amplifier delivers a conservative 20W RMS per channel into 8 ohms, optimized through locally manufactured custom output transformers. These offer both 4-ohm and 8-ohm taps and are wound in South Australia using high-grade Japanese M6 core steel. A purpose-built power transformer ensures long-term durability, supported by internal fuse protection for both the mains and rectifier windings.

Valve architecture centers on two 12AU7 driver tubes, a single 12AX7/ECC803 input tube, and dual matched EL84 quads populating the output stage—eight tubes in total. Biasing is fully automatic for the EL84s, while the input and driver valves allow for easy tube rolling. The standard configuration uses JJ Electronics EL84 and input tubes, and Tung-Sol 12AU7 tubes. High-end components such as Mundorf Evo coupling capacitors, ALPS Blue Velvet potentiometers, and true point-to-point hand wiring highlight the amplifier’s audiophile credibility. The design is strictly zero global feedback, favoring sonic purity over measured perfection.

Connectivity is simple and functional. You’ll find four RCA line-level inputs and separate 4-ohm and 8-ohm speaker binding posts on the rear panel—each outfitted with high-quality sockets. The thick front and rear panels are made from durable acrylic with crisp white laser-etched labeling. Alongside separate left and right volume controls are independently adjustable bass and treble knobs, supplemented by both tone defeat and mute switches. All of this is enclosed in a hefty, vibration-resistant 20kg steel chassis.

Easy setup and solid documentation make the EL84/4 beginner-friendly despite its purist design. Tubes are clearly marked for installation with detailed instructions in the tidy owner’s manual. For this review, the Lyrebird EL84/4 was tested with a range of speakers, including the JBL HDI 3800 (92dB sensitivity) and the more power-hungry VAF DC2 MKIII (86dB sensitivity).

Listening Impressions

From the first listen, the EL84/4 reveals a smooth, engaging sonic signature—unapologetically musical with a slightly rolled-off treble and warm, lush midrange. Its voicing is clearly crafted for listening pleasure over critical analysis. Tracks like “The Sound of Silence” by Geoff Castellucci and “Lester’s Methadone Clinic” by Sonia Dada brought out a full-bodied presentation with exceptional vocal presence and organic texture.

Although it doesn’t aim for high-end hyper-detail, the Lyrebird achieves surprising transparency and nuance. On Dominic Miller’s “London Paris Cardiff”, it revealed fine layers of harmonic complexity without sounding overly processed—striking a careful balance between warmth and resolution.

The amp excels with efficient floorstanding speakers like the JBLs but holds its own with demanding bookshelf designs. With “Fit Song” by Cornelius, fast passages and percussive transients were handled with agile precision. The track “Hearing Magnetic Lies” from Malia and Boris Blank demonstrated the amp’s capacity to control dynamics and reproduce subtle shifts in tone and space.

Perhaps most striking is the amp’s sense of soundstage and imaging. It throws a generous, immersive sound field—deep and wide, with distinct instrument placement. “I Don’t Believe in You” by Talk Talk showcased the amp’s spatial capabilities, making it easy to follow individual instruments in a live-sounding environment.

Final Verdict

The Lyrebird EL84/4 represents a standout debut in the high-fidelity audio space. With its classic EL84 valve tone, expert craftsmanship, and thoughtful feature set—including independent tone and volume controls—this integrated amp strikes the perfect balance between musicality and usability. Its zero-feedback design ensures an authentic, lively presentation without straying into coloration or overly syrupy warmth.

Well-built, great-sounding, and moderately priced, the EL84/4 integrated amplifier is an ideal fit for both seasoned tube enthusiasts and newcomers looking to explore the world of high-performance valve amplification. If you’re after an audiophile-grade tube amplifier made with pride in Australia, this compelling amp deserves your attention.