New Amp and More From Cary Audio

20. July 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Uncategorized · Tags: , ,

“The SI-300.2d integrated amplifier is yet another milestone as Cary Audio forges deeper into the new era of sought after premium audio systems” the North Carolina company says in its latest press release. cary_SI-300.2d

The SI-300.2d mates a 300 watts per channel stereo Class A/B power amplifier with analogue RCA and XLR inputs to a Class A analogue preamplifier gain stage. The amplifier itself is biased to run Class A for an extended portion of the power output. The digital section is a chip off Cary’s reference products thereby including technologies like their proprietary TruBit™ Upsampling and OSO™ reclocking features.

Digital inputs include; XMOS USB capable of True native DSD up to 256 and PCM/DXD up to 32 Bit / 384kHz, as well as Coaxial (2), Optical, AES/EBU, and aptX® Bluetooth inputs. All SPDIF and Bluetooth digital sources offer 10 TruBit™ selectable upsampling or PCM to DSD conversion options. On the analogue side, the SI-300.2d includes 4 analogue inputs (2-balanced XLR, 2-RCA), with one each of the XLR and RCA inputs offering true Cinema Bypass features.

Additional features include: a pre/subwoofer output, coaxial and optical digital outputs, IR hand held remote, trigger out, IR sensor input, and Ethernet and Wi-Fi for controlling the SI-300.2d with free iOS and Android apps.

Weight:  52 lbs.

Dimensions:  6″ H x 17.25″ W x 18 ” D

Retail Price:  $5,995

The SI-300.2d is now shipping

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Moon Néo Ace Lands In UK

21. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , ,

The Nēo ACE from Moon is “A Complete Experience of musical ecstasy” says the company’s press release. The all-in-one ACE is an integrated amplifier and streaming DAC music player so all you need do is simply hook up a pair of speakers, connect to the internet and play. The ACE features Moon’s MiND* control system which provides a full graphic interface allowing access to a digital music library or streaming service.MOON ACE low res 2

The ACE features all-new advanced setup software and will decode DSD up to DSD256 and 32- bit/384kHz PCM. The ACE also features a moving magnet phono preamplifier and has RS-232 and IR ports for use in custom-install environments.

RRP £2,800, though on offer at £2500 until July 1stMOON ACE low res 1

MOON NEO ACE FEATURES 

  • Three line-level inputs including a front-mounted 1/8” mini-jack for personal media
  • Headphone output on 1/4” TRS jack located on the front
  • Seamless integration with MOON’s MiND
  • Eight (8) digital inputs include USB (hi-res audio), SPDIF (2), Optical (2), aptX® Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi and Ethernet
  • The first MOON product using an OLED type screen – provides more detailed information.
  • Simple MiND setup via on-board software
  • Moving magnet phono preamplifier
  • Analogue inputs are configurable to “pass-through” mode, which bypasses the gain stage to accommodate components like a home-theatre processor

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 

  • Output Power at 8Ω: 50 Watts per channel
  • Input Sensitivity: 370mV – 3.0V RMS
  • Input Impedance : 11,000Ω
  • Gain: 37dB
  • Signal-to-noise ratio: 100dB @ full power
  • Frequency response (full range): 10Hz – 60kHz +0/-3dB
  • Crosstalk: 90dB

   THD (20Hz – 20kHz @ 1 watt/50 watts): 0.015% / 0.02%

  • Intermodulation distortion: 05%
  • PCM Bit-depth range/sampling rates: 16-32bits / 1-384kHz
  • DSD sample rates: DSD64, DSD128 & DSD256
  • Shipping weight: 24 lbs / 11 Kgs
  • Dimensions (width x height x depth): 42.9 x 8.9 x 36.6

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Grandinote Proemio Preamplifier and Silva Power Amplifier

20. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Amplifiers, Hifi Reviews · Tags: , , ,

At £14500 for the pair, the Grandinote Proemio preamp and Silva power amplifier are far from bargain basement fodder, but do they warrant such a price-tag? Stuart Smith finds out.  More »

Mark Levinson No 536 Amp Arrives In UK

15. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: ,

 

Karma-AV say they are delighted to announce the availability of the Mark-Levinson № 536 monaural power amplifier to UK dealers, installers and customers.  27425088062_d6272b2916_k

Engineered to deliver a substantial 400W into 8 ohms and 800W into 4 ohms, the № 536 will drive demanding loudspeaker loads to generous volume levels even in larger rooms. It is designed for exceptional sonic purity, stability, consistency and reliability, blending discrete class AB amplifier topology with Class A voltage gain and driver stages. No integrated circuits are used in the signal path.

The Mark Levinson № 536 includes an XLR balanced and an RCA unbalanced input, and provides two pairs of heavy-duty speaker binding posts fitted with Mark Levinson’s characteristic hurricane wings to facilitate secure speaker-cable tightening without tools.

The № 536 also includes Ethernet, RS-232 and 12V trigger inputs and outputs for integration with Mark Levinson preamplifiers, networked installations and control systems. EuP-compliant the amplifier will go into low-power standby mode when not in operation.

In keeping with all Mark Levinson audio components, the № 536 has a distinctively elegant appearance. Its unmistakable black and silver industrial design blends iconic Mark Levinson aesthetic elements with an angular, modern contemporary look.  More details here. 

Mark Levinson No 536 Monaural Power Amplifier typical retail price inc VAT: £14000.00 each and are available in July. Hifi Pig heard this and it’s matching preamplifier at Munich High-End and it is really something!

 

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Audio Research Foundation Series

13. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , ,

Audio Research has announced the introduction of their Foundation Series. From the same engineering and design team responsible for the Reference Series, “the Foundation family of vacuum tube components has been created to provide incredible musical experiences”.4476_Audio_Research_Foundation_Series_(stack_without_shadow) (1)

The first three components include the LS28 line stage preamplifier, the PH9 phono stage, and the DAC9 digital- to-analog converter. A new amplifier will follow, with other products to complete the series. All models will be available in both black and natural anodized aluminium finishes. Each unit comes with its own custom metal remote control.

All products at Audio Research follow the exact same path from concept to production, regardless of the series or model. The Foundation Series shares the same lineage, build quality, and many design characteristics found in the more costly Reference Series.

Many of the parts in an Audio Research product are proprietary, while some are designed for a singular model. This attention to detail is inherent to all processes at Audio Research – from the hand-soldering of every circuit board, to the final listening test which is conducted by the same person who helped guide the design. Our commitment at Audio Research is to deliver the most musically satisfying experience at every level.

The LS28 line stage is a flexible  preamplifier. Four balanced and four single-ended inputs, and two sets of both balanced and single-ended outputs, allow maximum connectivity. The straightforward menu allows control of numerous parameters, including input naming, tube hours, auto shutdown, and home theater passthrough. Phase invert and mono are also standard functions. At the heart of the LS28 are four 6H30 vacuum tubes in the analogue circuit.4471_Audio_Research_LS28

While the LS28 is the perfect match for any Audio Research amplifier, it has been designed to work with nearly any amplifier on the market today. Shipping to begin in June.4472_Audio_Research_LS28_(internal)

The PH9 phono preamplifier is a great pairing with most cartridge and turntable combinations. A trio of 6H30 vacuum tubes are at the core of a simple and clear signal path to provide the most transparent preamplification possible. Five different impedance settings allow for cartridge loading, which can be changed on the fly with the included metal remote. Cartridge impedance, tube hours, auto shutdown, and other features are included in the menu system. Shipping to begin in July.4474_Audio_Research_PH9

4475_Audio_Research_PH9_(internal)

The DAC9 digital-to-analog converter decodes most current formats with state-of-the-art vacuum tube technology. Five digital connections – USB, RCA, BNC, AES/EBU, and Toslink – provide connectivity to all of your digital sources. Quad DAC architecture provides a balanced digital signal, wide dynamic range, and decoding resolutions from red book CD up to 384 kHz and native DSD sampling rates.4468_Audio_Research_DAC9 (1)

A pair of 6H30v vacuum tubes are the heart of the analog circuit. Both balanced and single-ended connectors are provided for output connectivity. Native-rate upsampling and selectable digital filters allow customisation of the digital signal. Shipping to begin in August.4469_Audio_Research_DAC9_(internal)

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Luxman MQ-300 Vacuum Tube Stereo Power Amplifier

13. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , , ,

The MQ-300 is a new generation of vacuum tube stereo amplifiers from LUXMAN that “uses the most thoroughly selected parts and circuits to maximise the performance and tonal quality of the latest direct heated triode – the TA-300B”. Following in the design footsteps of the MB-300 released 31 years ago, the MQ-300 combines traditional design with cutting edge technology.   MQ-300_skew_coverlesss

Since the foundation of the company 90 years ago, and the subsequent release of the MB-300, LUXMAN has pursued certain core principles for sound generation. These principles are embodied in the MQ-300 as ‘honest and natural sound quality, feeling the sound field without exaggeration’, ‘feeling the unity of sound with sufficient data for the whole audio band’ and to achieve ‘fatigue free listening enjoyment’. Expressing the original sound whilst bringing the spirit of each disk to life are qualities intrinsic to the MQ-300 and those principles.MQ-300_rears

Design History

The MQ-300 is based on the cosmetic design and circuit configuration of the MB-300, the renowned vacuum tube monaural power amplifier released by LUXMAN in 1984. The elements of traditional design and elegant tonal quality that is unique to the performance of the TA-300B, a direct heated triode, have been maximised in the MQ-300.

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Rated Power Output: 8W + 8W (4Ω, 8Ω, 16Ω)
  • Input Sensitivity: 490mV (8W) 240kΩ
  • THD: 1% (1kHz / 8Ω / 1W)
  • S/N Ratio (IHF-A): 105dB
  • Input: 1 x Direct, 1 x  Variable
  • Output: Large speaker terminal x 1  set (4,8,16Ω independent)
  • Power Consumption: 160W
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 460 × 273 × 340 (mm)
  • Net Weight: 29.0kgMQ300_trans_tops

The MQ-300 is arriving in the UK later this month, with an RRP of ￡15,000.

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Mitchell & Johnson SAP201V Amplifier, CDD 201V CD player and WLD+211T Streamer

12. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Amplifiers, CD Players, Computer audio and Streaming, Hifi Reviews, Uncategorized · Tags: , , , , ,

Mitchell and Johnson’s trio of CD Player, Amplifier and Streamer cost a total of £947 which puts them very much in the budget category but can they satisfy sonically? Dominic Marsh finds out for Hifi Pig.  More »

Billie Amp Launches On Kickstarter

10. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , ,

Introducing Billie, the stereo amplifier that combines  the precision of digital with the warmth of analogue sound in a Nordic minimalist aesthetic. An objet d’art designed with attention to detail inside and out, Billie brings back the transcendent ritual of listening, say the company launching it on Kickstarter.heaven_11_kickstarter

“Our goal is to go beyond soundbars and bluetooth speakers, back to how music was meant to be experienced.” says Itai Azerad, Heaven 11 cofounder and designer. “We believe that the stereo system is still the best way to experience that ‘live in the room’ feeling. We’re not about ‘multi-room’, we’re about ‘in the room’.”

Named after Jazz Icon Billie Holliday, this amp plays ALL your music beautifully whether it’s from your phone, TV, Spotify or vinyl.heaven_11_kickstarter82

“We designed something for the pragmatic audiophile because we couldn’t find it out there. We built an affordable high-caliber amp that plays all of your music collection –  be it vinyl, Hi-Res digital, line or wireless.”

Combining the detailed soundstaging of digital to the round, analogue smoothness of tubes, Billie features ICEpower amplification by Bang & Olufsen (120W/4Ω), 32bit/384Kh DAC, AptX Bluetooth, RCA, vinyl and Toslink inputs. It comes with a custom-built tube preamp and a powerful headphone amp. The amp is to be manufactured in Montreal, Canada.

Moving away from the current trend of generic design and disposable materials, Billie’s shell is made of thick, machined aluminium. The cool minimalist casing details are balanced by warm, crafted hardwood knobs.

“Design is not just aesthetics, it’s how we use an object, what the object communicates to us and about us.  I believe a stereo’s design ought to be closer to an electric guitar than a cable box -what most stereos look like these days. An electric guitar is quite a functional tool, -not too many useless knobs on there- but it’s also such an intimate object, there’s a mystery about it, you gotta feel a connection, you gotta want to touch it.”

Billie is to be launched on Kickstarter mid-July at the special price of $595 US. After the campaign, the price will be $895/$995 US.

Heaven 11 Audio is a Montreal-based audio company  founded in 2015 by Itai Azerad and Andre Keilani, two award-winning product designers with a lifelong passion for music.
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Roksan Announce blak Series Components

08. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , ,

Roksan Audio is adding the blak series of components to its portfolio. The blak series is being introduced as an entirely new design for Roksan – both in terms of sound performance and visual appeal. Featuring a robust, industrial design the blak series is the audiophile solution for those seeking “superlative performance and features within a ‘statement product’ aesthetic, but without the esoteric high-end audio price tag” say the London company’s recent press release.

Handmade in the UK and at a specialised facility in Germany, the range is initially launching with an integrated amplifier and a CD player. These will be followed over time a comprehensive range of products that will offer the same performance-for-cost ratio.

Like the K3 range before it, all blak products will be available in three finishes – Anthracite, Charcoal and Opium – and all will be supplied with a stylish and intuitive system remote.

blak Integrated Amplifier

The blak Integrated Amplifier combines a high-end amplifier with a highly-specified USB DAC, a Bluetooth receiver and a dedicated headphone amplifier; all in one sleek chassis.charcoalblakamp1

The amplifier section of the blak Integrated Amplifier uses hand- selected audiophile components throughout its circuitry, including high- quality relays. The chosen transformers are also tuned to ensure the best sound quality and current power available. This sophisticated internal design allows the amplifier to deliver > 150W (8Ω) output.

The blak Integrated Amplifier boasts sufficient inputs to cater for almost any high-end audio system. Alongside three RCA pairs, there’s also a balanced XLR pair input for superior source devices. There’s  also a Moving Magnet-compatible phono stage inside.

For ease of use, the blak Integrated Amplifier supports wireless music playback via its built-in aptX® Bluetooth module. This allows for up-to CD-quality wireless streaming from compatible laptops and smart devices. For more advanced digital media, the amplifier also boasts a USB (Type-B) digital  input for playback from a computer or laptop. The DAC allows for playback of audio files up to 24-bit/192kHz (PCM) or DSD128, offering an exceptional high-resolution performance.blakampback

Finally, whereas many other products include headphone inputs as an “extra”, Roksan have gone one step further with blak. Here the headphone amplifier sits within its own dedicated section, with an independent power supply and toggle switch.

Operation of the blak Integrated Amplifier is effortlessly simple either via the supplied system remote or through the front panel. The large, clear to read (yet dimmable) LED display shows the selected input and the over-sized volume knob has a visual indicator around its circumference to indicate the volume level.

SRP £2,750.00

blak CD Player

Internally the blak CD Player uses a totally isolated disc mechanism to eliminate vibration. Once extracted from the disc, the digital signal is managed by a DAC chip-set for bit-perfect conversion and an advanced digital clock for optimal performance.Roksan-blak-CD-Char-Left

For connecting to an external DAC there are three digital outputs available (S/PDIF, Optical or AES/EBU), or for connecting straight to an amplifier – like the blak Integrated Amplifier – there’s the choice of either unbalanced RCA or balanced XLR outputs. Once connected, the whole player is controlled with the supplied system remote or via the front panel; additional handy information is displayed on the dimmable  LED display during playback.Roksan-blak-CD-Rear

SRP £2,500.00

The blak CD Player is available now in Anthracite, Charcoal or Opium finish.

Technical Information

blak Integrated Amplifier

Inputs: 3 x RCA (pair)

1 x XLR (pair)

1 x MM Phono RCA (pair)

1 x aptX® Bluetooth (wireless) 1 x USB Type-B

Phono Stage:  MM Input

Gain:   76.75dB @ 1kHz

Impedance:     47kΩ Capacitance:     150pF

Line-Level Input Impedance:            24kΩ (XLR) 40kΩ (RCA)

Gain (at 1kHz, 8Ω):   37dB

THD: (at 1W, 8Ω, 5kHz):      <0.02%

THD: (at 12W, 8Ω, 5kHz):    <0.035%

Power Output (at 1kHz):       150W (8Ω) 230W (4Ω)

Frequency Response (at -3dB, 8Ω, 12W):    <20Hz – >80kHz Channel Balance (at 1kHz, 8Ω):  Better than 0.3dB

Cross-Talk (at 1kHz, 8Ω):      <-104dB

Signal-Noise Ratio (at 1kHz, 8Ω):    >76dB

blak CD Player

Outputs:          3 x Digital (Coaxial, Optical, XLR) 2 x Analogue Pairs (RCA or XLR)

Peak Output:  2.5V

THD (at 1kHz, 0dB): <0.001%

Linearity at 1kHz:      >89dB

Jitter:   <135ps

Signal-Noise Ratio (A-Weighted):    >108dB

Stop-band rejection:   >100dB

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Unboxing the Audio Hungary Qualiton A20i Valve Amplifier

07. June 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi Reviews, Unboxings · Tags: , , , ,

Audio Hungary are a relatively new name to Hifi Pig and we first met them at this year’s High End show in Munich where they had their wares on display. This, the Qualiton A20i, is their entry level integrated amplifier. It is very compact, runs 2 x 20 Watts of Class A power and is based on classic push-pull topology.

It arrived, with little help from DPD, in a sturdy double (and surprisingly heavy) boxing, with the amp inside being very well packed indeed. The first thing out the box was the remote…wow, that’s heavy and really rather beautiful! Off with the valve cover to expose the tubes and the gleaming chrome body-work and that’s it all unboxed. More »

You’re All Doing It Wrong. You’re All doing it Right.

31. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Comment, Views Of Stu · Tags: ,

More ramblings and incoherent musings from Stuart; this time he questions why we aren’t all listening to pro monitors and pro amplifiers and finishes off with a mixed case of reds for good measure.View_MFA_Spons More »

Pro-Ject MaiA DS Integrated Amplifier

30. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Amplifiers, D to A Converters, Headphones, Hifi Reviews, Phono Stages · Tags: , , , , , ,

Dominic Marsh and Ian Ringstead take the very well specced £699 Pro-Ject MaiA DS integrated amplifier for a ride and rather enjoy it. OUTSTANDING PRODUCTboxred More »

Electrocompaniet Announce ECI 6DX Integrated Amplifier with DAC and Streamer

26. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , ,

Electrocompaniet have announced the EC1 6DX that incorporates and integrated amplifier along with a streamer and digital to analogue conversion.The built-in streamer is said to be flexible and easy to use. It can play directly from music services such as Tidal, Qobuz and Spotify, can be fed music through AirPlay or DLNA, and it can index and play from your own music collection stored in your network. The powerful hardware ensures that all popular formats are supported (including DSD) and that continuous software upgrades can support the latest and streaming services. ECI6DX_front_med-res

The streamer shares the same DNA as the ECM 2 and the new EC Living product line. This means that you can use the same apps and interface, and play all of the same music on all units. All units will work equally well together.ECI_6DX_rear_med_res

The ECI 6DX can be operated by their iOS & Android application, the universal webinterface, or with the straightforward IR remote control.

The converter will deal with 24bit /192kHz files, has SPDIF; 2 Toslink and a USB input. The streamer section has 802.11 Wifi with MIMO a 1Gigabit Ethernet and a USB for external storage.   Supported formats are: WAV/WAVE, MP3, AAC+, Vorbis, AC3, DTS, ALAC, FLAC, APE, WMA, up to 192kHZ/24bit, DSD, up to DSD 128 (5.6 MHz)

 Specifications

Preamplifier section    
Input impedance ( Balanced input ) 47Kohm  
Maximum input level 10 Volt RMS  
Noise floor ( 1Vrms, 20 – 20 kHz, balanced) -135 dB  
THD + N   (1Vrms, 20 – 20 kHz, balanced) <0.004%  
Gain (Balanced) 0 dB  
     
Amplifier section    
Output Impedance < 0,02 Ohm  
Frequency response 1 – 150 kHz  
Channel separation > 120 dB  
THD ( 20 – 20 kHz) < 0.004%  
Maximum peak current >100A  
Damping factor  8 ohm load >350  
I Input sensitivity  120W output 1.3Vrms  
Input sensitivity HT  120W output 1Vrms  
Gain HT Input x36 (31 dB)  
Rated output power    
8 ohms 2 x 125 W  
4 ohms 2 x 200 W  
2 ohms 2 x 370 W  
 
Dimensions    
Width 465 mm / 18.3 inches  
Depth 405 mm / 16 inches  
Height 128 mm / 5 inches  
Weight 20Kg / 44 lbs.  

 

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Dayens Menuetto Integrated Amplifier

25. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Amplifiers, Hifi Reviews · Tags: , , ,

Dan Worth gets to grip with a little 50watts a side integrated amp from Serbia that costs just £600 in the UK.  More »

High-End Highlights Part 4

18. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: High End Munich, High End Munich 2016 · Tags: , , , , , ,

Part four of Hifi Pig’s coverage of High End Munich 2016 featuring: Neodio, Audio Hungary, Bang And Olufsen, Terrastrato Typ 1 Standard, Estelon, Blumenhofer Acoustics and Cammino, Indiana Line, TW Acustic, Constellation and Martin Logan, TAD, D’Agostino, Wadia, Krell, Audio Research, Meridian, EAT, Sonus Faber More »

High End Launch For New Cyrus Amp

05. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , ,

Cyrus ONE is a 100 watt per channel amp using the third generation of the company’s hybrid class D technology.  It is packed full of features including a built-in phono stage, Bluetooth® streaming and a high quality headphone amplifier.

Cyrus One angle shot

Read the full story of the new amp from Cyrus 

 

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Hifi Pig Extra & GadgetyNews May 2016 Is Out

03. May 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , , , , , ,
The MAY edition of Hifi Pig Magazine and Gadgety News is out and ready for FREE download.
 
It’s packed with Hifi and Gadget reviews of course but this month we have a great interview with the man who discovered Prince and help write his first hit single, plus a special report on the possible effects of a Brexit on the British Hifi industry. Download your free copy now. There’s also great music reviews, fab columnists and more…MAY2016FRONT500SMALL
 
Hifi Reviews
Pre Audio GL-1102N Turntable
EAT C Sharp Turntable and Koetsu Black MC Cartridge
Remton 383 Mk 2 Phonostage
Roksan TR-5 S2 Loudspeakers
Fostex PM0.5d Active Loudspeakers
Questyle QP1r DAP
O2A Quintessence SUBLIM Speaker Cables
Studio Connections Platinum Digital Cables
Atlas Cables Budget Loom
 
Gadgety Reviews
Cubot X17 Smartphone Review
Devil Horns Earbuds Review
Fugoo Tough and Style Bluetooth Speaker Review
iFit Classic Analogue Fitness Smartwatch
Manfrotto Lumiemuse 3 LED Camera Light
Onkyo H500M Headphones
Skullcandy Grind Wireless Headphones
Skullcandy Hesh 2 Bluetooth Headphones
ViewSonic Pro7827HD Projector
 
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Soulutions Announce 511 Amplifier

26. April 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , ,

Swiss manufacturer Soulutions have been in touch to tell Hifi Pig about their new 511 amplifier that will start production in October 2016 and will cost 24500CHF (around £17000). The 511 has the same switched-mode power supply found on the company’s 7 series products and is optimised for audio use.

The 511 can be used in three distinct modes:

Stereo-mode (150W @8Ohms, 300W @4Ohms and 600W at 2Ohms)

Dual-mode which gives the same results as above.
Mono-mode (600W @8Ohms, 1200W at 4Ohms and 2000W at 2Ohms)soulution_511_1604_001

The amplification circuit is similar to the 711 and 701 amps from Soulutions having at its core a proprietary voltage amplification stage that consists of linearized amplifiers operating up to a cutoff frequency of 80MHz. The Class A operation is supplemented by 500 000 µF of capacitance storage in the power supply

There are a total of 10 power supplies in the 511with those supplying audio and digital circuits being isolated from each other with optocouplers.

 

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Boulder Amplifiers Announce Release Of 2120 D/A Converter

19. April 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , ,

Boulder Amplifiers, based in Boulder Colorado have announced that with the completion of the HDMI input module, the full release and shipment of the 2120 D/A Converter. The original 2000 Series was in continuous and unchanged production since 1996. The replacement 2100 Series is Boulder’s “highest performing, continuously produced product line”.2120 Disp View

International export prices will vary by country.

All electronic circuitry within the 2120 D/A Converter is entirely new and all technological changes were developed over a six-­‐year period that included the engineering of a complete SoM (System on Module) host processor and dedicated video driver to support the front panel display.2120 Straight

Among the numerous features of the 2120 are:

Digital Inputs:

  • Standard traditional digital inputs: coaxial S/PDIF, balanced AES3, and Toslink (EIAJ) optical
  • Both Standard (computer) and Slave (memory device) streaming USB connections accepted
  • Optional HDMI inputs (2x Input, 1 x throughput)
  • DLNA/UPnP via Ethernet for bit-­‐perfect network streaming
  • Multiple fully modular digital input options available to tailor the 2120 to the user’s system needs and prevent obsolescence

Digital Processing Features:

  • Asynchronous digital streaming
  • Digital audio file formats accepted: PCM, DSF (DSD 1x and DSD 2x), AIFF, ALAC (Apple Lossless), FLAC, WAV, MP3, OGG Vorbis
  • Digital data rates accepted: 16-­‐, 20-­‐, 24-­‐ and 32-­‐bit word lengths at 32, 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4,

192, 352.8 and 384 kHz.

  • Digital volume control for direct connection to amplification, featuring an 80 dB range and 1.0 dB step resolution
  • A balanced variation of Boulder’s Precise Interval Clock to substantially reduce noise in the clock circuit and maintain ultra-­‐precise data timing at the DACs
  • Boulder’s Eigen-­‐algorithm digital filter for optimized frequency and phase response

Analogue Features:

  • Three-­‐output power supply (analog left channel, analogue right channel and digital), plus an independent supply for low power consumption standby modes
  • Isolated left and right channel analog sections as in the 2110 Preamplifier
  • Ten proprietary Boulder 99S gain stages per channel
  • Dual balanced outputs for each channel

Operational and Chassis Features:

  • Function control by multiple control points on Apple-­‐ and Android-­‐based tablets and mobile devices as  well as iTunes
  • Four separate chassis: left analog, right analog, user interface and power supply
  • Separate power supply casework ensures optimal noise isolation
  • Large, full-­‐color, 12.3-­‐inch (31.2 cm), 1280 x 480 LCD display
  • Display provides complete metadata readout, selected input or customized source listing, progress bar, resolution and data rate
  • Album art displayed when available
  • Automatic software updating when attached to an active Internet connection
  • Multiple Standby modes for quick start, standard and ultra-­‐low power consumption
  • Comprehensive setup and configuration modes
  • IP control with two-­‐way communication for integration with external control systems, such as Savant or Crestron

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KR Audio At High End 2016

19. April 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: High End Munich, High End Munich 2016 · Tags: , , ,

KR Audio, famous for manufacturing their very own tubes will be at this year’s Munich High End where they will have their VA 200 amp rated at 200 Watts and utilising the KR 842 vhd tube application.11-kronzilla-sx

Also on show at High end 2016 there will be their P-130 pre-amplifier with KR 05 tube application and the VA300i with KR 300B tube application.

As well as more traditional amplifiers, KR Audio will also have a headphone system showing a VA355i with Abyss with KR 100 tube application. The KR T-00 is, say KR Audio a superior 845 and the amplifier is also known as the ‘baby Kronzilla’.

Read more news about Munich High End 2016 Here and Hifi Pig’s coverage of last years High End Munich here

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Taking The Grandinote Proemio Preamp and Silva Amp Out Their Boxes

23. March 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , ,

The Grandinote Proemio Preamplifier and Silva amplifier have just arrived at Hifi Pig Towers for review, but by way of a bit of a preview we’ve taken lots of lovely photographs of the unboxing of this Italian pairing. Prices in the UK for the Proemio Preamplifier is £6500 and £7995 for the Silva Stereo Amplifier.gn16s

The amplifier is a 37 W Class A dual-mono and the preamplifier is also Class A dual-mono. The pairing weigh in at a not inconsiderable 55Kg.

Click through for photographs. 

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TAGA Harmony HTA – 700B V2 amplifier, Platinum B-40 Speakers and Platinum 18 Speaker Cables Package Review

22. March 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , , , ,

Dominic Marsh takes this €840 package of amp, speakers and speaker cables from TAGA Harmony for a spin.

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“The word to best describe the sound was “balanced” in that treble and bass were in equilibrium, midband was clean and clear, so it was no effort at all just to sit back and enjoy what I was hearing while the system was warming up.”

Read the full review of the TAGA Harmony HTA – 700B V2 amplifier, Platinum B-40 Speakers and Platinum 18 Speaker Cables Package.

 

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TAGA Harmony HTA – 700B V2 amplifier, Platinum B-40 Speakers and Platinum 18 Speaker Cables Package

21. March 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Amplifiers, Cables, Hifi Reviews, Loudspeakers. · Tags: , , , , ,

Dominic Marsh takes this €840 package of amp, speakers and speaker cables from TAGA Harmony for a spin. More »

New Monoblocks From KR Audio

10. March 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: , ,

The new KR VA 200 monoblocks with the KR 842vhd tube application from KR Audio will be presented at the Melia Hotel in Milan for the Milano Hi-End show, Saturday and Sunday, April 2-3, 2016 in the Turchese room by Mr. Luigi Bocca of LAB Audio Technology Amministrazione as a world debut before the official presentation at the Munich Hi-End show next month, May 5-8, 2016 Halle 4, U08.VA200

The VA200 is a circlotron with a Lundahl C-core output transformer. The driver stage is equipped with a depletion mode MOSFET transistors. The circuit is fully symmetrical with a differential input stage. The output tubes 8 x KR 842vhd per chassis) are fully auto-biased so no further adjustment is needed after replacement.

The new VA 200 monoblocks uses not only the KR hybrid circuit with the solid state first stage and the 8 x KR 842vhd tube application per chassis in the second stage, but is innovative for the design concept of the circlotron circuit or floating circuit giving the listener 200 watts.

Technical Data ( one channel ) 

Power Tubes: 8 x KR842

Output Stage: Circlotron, class A

Output Power: 200 WRMS (THD=1%)

Output Impedance: 4, 8 W

Frequency Response: 20Hz ¸40KHz (-3dB)

Global Feedback: zero

Input Sensitivity: 1VRMS / 100kW @ 200W

Power requirements: 230/115VAC , 50/60 Hz

Power consumption: 1kVA

Operating temperature: 5C° to 40C°

Weight: Approx.  40Kg

Dimensions including projecting parts and controls (w/h/d): Approx. 38.5  x 28 x 55 cm

The Bristol Show 2016 – PMC Unveils New Bryston Cubes Power Amps To UK

19. February 2016 · Write a comment · Categories: Hifi News · Tags: ,

 

PMC announces the introduction of the Bryston Cubed Series amplifiers to the UK, replacing the Squared Series that made its debut in 2009 and bringing significant performance improvements.BRYSTON_cube_hifi_news

The Cubed Series is a statement design platform ideal for music enthusiasts, home theatre installations and professional audio applications says the company’s latest press release. The new line-up will roll out in phases, with the 300 watt stereo 4B³ and 600 watt mono 7B³ the first to be introduced to the UK market.  Both models feature balance and unbalanced inputs, selectable gain at 23dB or 29dB and convection cooling with no fans or moving parts. The 4B³ is also bridgeable to create a 900 watt mono amplifier.

“Cutting edge engineering achievements” are at the forefront of the new designs, featuring a patented super-linear, low noise input buffer that has added to the “remarkable improvements in transparency and overall musical enjoyment”.

The Cubed Series also features a more robust RF and audio frequency noise filtering circuit positioned before the power supplies. The effect of this new design is to prevent unwanted anomalies on the power line from interfering, even minutely, with the audio signal.

The technological advances perfected by Bryston’s engineers result in some remarkable audio advantages, including an expanded spaciousness and depth of focus, improved mid-bass clarity and more air and openness in the high-frequencies.

Aesthetically the Cubed Series demonstrates a progression in Bryston’s industrial design, with the new amplifiers featuring an redesigned milled aluminium front panel.  Standard finish for the range is black, with silver available to order.

As with all Bryston analogue products the entire Cubed Series range comes with the company’s enviable 20-year warranty.

UK Retail Prices (inc. VAT)

Bryston 4B³ power amplifier £5,299

Bryston 7B³ power amplifier £5,449

PMC Unveils the Bryston’s Cubed power amplifier line-up at Sound & Vision at The Bristol Show Sound & Vision 2016 in SS Great Britain 2&3

 

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