Power Supply, Chassis and Feet | SMc Audio VRE-1 specs

The Power Supply

The VRE-1’s companion power supply provides carefully tailored DC power for the proper operation of your preamp. The “Power 1” connection provides +/- 24 VDC of choke-filtered, unregulated power, while the “Power 2” connection provides +/- 24 VDC of fully regulated power for the relays, LEDs, and Monitor Out buffer amplifier.

Power supply design is critical to superior performance. In a very real sense, it is the power supply we are hearing when we listen to music. One of the keys to the VRE-1’s superiority is that its JFET buffer circuitry does not require a regulated supply, so this source of signal degradation was eliminated. Voltage regulators are very much like amplifiers, and all of the same rules of sound quality apply to them. Eliminating this regulator stage allows the VRE-1 to get that much closer to being a true “window on the performance.”

The VRE-1 supply uses the finest quality parts I have found through careful study and experimentation: a superb toroidal power transformer, soft-recovery diodes, outstanding chokes from Lundahl, superior capacitors, resistors, and wire, and selected damping feet. The critical analog power-link cable is custom-made for the VRE-1 by Stealth Audio Cables, and uses their proprietary molybdenum - carbon conductor technology. This was chosen after lengthy listening evaluations with a wide variety of cable options. Even the AC inlet is chosen for superior clarity and transparency. Each power supply is “voiced” by ear before delivery, which involves listening to the various permutations of transformer secondary wiring. Its design and construction is an exercise in total “overkill” - its current capability vastly exceeds the requirements of the VRE-1, but I feel this translates into superior performance and reliability. Literally, only the best will do.

Chassis and Feet

Every aspect of an audiophile component’s design affects its performance to one degree or another, and this is true of chassis materials as well. I discovered long ago that different metals (aluminum, steel, stainless-steel, copper, brass, etc.) produced different sonic results with a given circuit, and this led to my use of aluminum and copper-plated steel as preferred chassis materials. However, various experiments I did in the course of developing new designs began to suggest that eliminating metal altogether might produce even better results. This led to experiments with Nylon, Delrin, different types of wood, and finally to solid- surface synthetic materials. These materials are more difficult to work with than traditional metals, but I consider the results to well worth the effort. The VRE-1’s chassis is much more inert mechanically than traditional designs, and the elimination of metal does away with certain colorations that get in the way of true transparency.

VRE-1 specifications

SMc Audio VRE-1 is a high-performance vacuum tube preamplifier that exemplifies the art of audio engineering, with a focus on delivering exceptional sound quality and versatility. This preamplifier is designed for the discerning audiophile who values both the warmth of analog sound and the precision of modern technology.

One of the standout features of the VRE-1 is its fully balanced design, which not only minimizes noise and distortion but also enhances the dynamic range of audio signals. This configuration makes it an ideal choice for both professional studios and high-end home audio systems. The balanced architecture ensures that signals maintain their integrity over long cable runs, preserving detail and clarity.

The VRE-1 incorporates premium quality components, including hand-selected vacuum tubes that contribute to its rich, organic sound. The use of high-quality capacitors and resistors further enhances its audio performance, allowing for a wide frequency response that captures every nuance of the original recording. The carefully crafted circuit topology is designed to achieve a smooth frequency response while minimizing phase distortion, delivering a natural and engaging listening experience.

In terms of connectivity, the VRE-1 is equipped with multiple inputs and outputs, including XLR and RCA connections. This versatility allows it to integrate seamlessly into various audio setups, whether you're connecting it to a power amplifier, digital sources, or other components. The unit also features a remote control, adding convenience to the listening experience.

An additional highlight of the VRE-1 is its adjustable gain settings. Audiophiles can easily customize the output level to match their source components, ensuring optimal performance and synergy within any system. This feature is particularly beneficial for users with a diverse range of source equipment, allowing for tailored sound reproduction without compromise.

SMc Audio has also placed a strong emphasis on aesthetics, with the VRE-1 showcasing a classic design that complements any audio environment. The solid chassis and premium finish not only contribute to its durability but also enhance its visual appeal.

In conclusion, the SMc Audio VRE-1 is a remarkable vacuum tube preamplifier that combines innovative technology with high-quality craftsmanship. Its balanced design, premium components, versatility in connectivity, and customizable gain settings make it a standout choice for anyone seeking to elevate their audio experience. Whether you are a seasoned audiophile or just beginning your journey into high-fidelity sound, the VRE-1 promises to deliver an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of your favorite music.