By arranging and integrating the voltage-mode and current-mode of the previous model and rebuilding it by taking advantage of the strengths of each, we have completed a new integrated amplifier that is particular about the "pure analog" method. Volume adjustment uses a "current branching method" that functions like a water-valve, so the sound does not become poor even when the volume is turned down. We carefully considered the gain distribution of the amplifier section to avoid being buried in noise throughout the signal path. By repeating auditions and fundamentally reconsidering the way negative feedback is applied, we were able to achieve both outstandingly powerful and delicate sound. With a DC amplifier configuration that eliminates coupling capacitors, the sound quality is neutral, clear, and colorless, and faithfully reproduces the details of musical expression with rich tones.
Design philosophy that values musical expression
What is musical expression? ― Music is an art. Whether it sounds beautiful or not, that is everything. We always ask ourselves questions from this perspective and work on product development. When it comes to "reproducing the original sound" of sound sources recorded on CDs and analog discs, we tend to think that the problem can be solved by imitating famous equipments of yesteryear or by using more sophisticated advanced technology. However, we have moved away from the illusions caused by such overconfidence in technology, and have taken the approach of eliminating technical elements that impair the purity of musical information as much as possible, and handling it within a simple and necessary system. For us, "original sound" is a natural-sounding live performance that is not mediated by electrical media. We believe that you will be able to directly feel the natural and clear musical expression, which is close to the sound of live performance.
Features
Smart Size ― Easy to wiring from rear panel.
The integrated amplifier with built-in power transformer is the size of a B5 notebook, so it can be placed anywhere. Keep it handy and enjoy music easily. Routing the wiring from the rear panel does not get in the way. If you use an external Bluetooth receiver, you can easily listen to sound sources from your smartphone, tablet or PC.
Japanese Taste ― The texture of Japan.
The simple and sturdy stainless steel chassis creates a stylish and timeless design. You can choose the color of the rice paper used for the display panel on the top board from the color samples below. You can also choose gray-smoke monotone top panel.
Large Front Panel ― Easy to operate.
All you need to do is turn on the power switch, select the input, change the volume, and mute; no complicated settings are required. The volume potentiometer and switches are all made in Japan with long lifespan and high reliability. We have adopted high-quality machined aluminum knobs that are easy to make fine adjustments (knob design may vary slightly depending on stock status).
No Habit Sound Quality ― Thoroughly eliminate the element that causes the stagnation of the music signal.
For switching the signal system, a long-life, high-reliability relay for measurement and communication equipment (contacts: gold-silver) filled with inert gas is used, resulting in very little deterioration of the music signal. By completely eliminating connectors and terminals with many metal parts, plated conductive wires, etc., we reproduce an elegant and stress-free natural depth and expansion without the accompanying noise associated with electronic equipment. The purpose of the DC-amp configuration, which eliminates coupling capacitors from the signal path, is not to amplify direct current, but to express a tone that is neutral, clear, and colorless.
Ultimate 15 watt ― Enough to enjoy music in your living room.
Large transistors with high capacity tend to be bulky and lack sound resolution and precision compared to smaller ones. In the latest model, we have carefully selected elements with "even better sound" from available semiconductors to achieve the highest output of 15 watt. The result is a rich, rich sound quality with a natural sound quality and rich harmonics that are not found in large power amplifiers that output 50 to 100 watt. You can enjoy music at a volume sufficient for listening in a typical living room. By adopting a larger power transformer (50 VA), it has a full-bodied sound with plenty of room.
Sophisticated Internal Structure ― Fully discrete power-amp.
The line input supports traditional voltage-mode, and all subsequent music signals are treated as current. Immediately after line input, it is converted to a current signal and powerfully drives the power amplifier. Volume adjustment uses a "current branching method" that adjusts the current to the power amplifier by branching it to the signal line and ground, so the sound quality will not deteriorate at any volume position. The power amplifier is designed to be as simple as possible with fewer amplification stages, and by optimizing the amount of negative feedback and total gain necessary, we prioritize the purity of musical expression above all else. There is no feeling of oppression, the sound is spacious and free, and the sound comes out smoothly and lightly. With its open, natural sound and clear, agile agility that doesn't make you feel sluggish, you'll forget the presence of your audio equipment. (The photo is a power amplifier board under prototype)
Universal Speaker Terminals ― Banana plugs & various cables can be attached.
A speaker terminal compatible with banana plugs has been standard specification. This enables various speaker cables such as bare wire cords, Y-type (spade) terminals, C-type terminals, fine pins, and banana plugs.
Specifications
- Line Input: RCA jack (unbalanced, 10kΩ), analog line input × 3
- Input Selector: inert gas sealed relay switch (contact: gold-silver)
- Mute: on (mute) / off (play)
- Volume Control: ALPS RK27 mechanical potentiometer
- Power-amp: fully discrete, 9 BJTs, "optimized gain" design
- Voltage Gain: 0 (mute) .. × 22 (28 dB)
- DC Offset: less than ±30 mV (muted, thermally stable state)
- Frequency Response: DC ~ 340 kHz (-3 dB)
- Output Power: 2 × 15 watt (8Ω), universal speaker terminals (φ4.0 mm)
- Dimension: W270 × H67 × D163 mm - B5 notebook size (excluding protrusion)
- Weight: 2.54 kg (without power cable)
- Accessories: power cable for IEC 3 pin AC inlet, alternate fuse, user's manual
- Power Supply: AC115~120V or AC220~240V depending on market
