Sound Performance Lab 2273, 2272 manual Technology, GainStation

Technology

The Hi-Z input is a fully discrete impedance converter that also operates in class A mode. It is based on a low-noise field effect transistor that is especially well suited to this task due to its extremely high input impedance. The signal then passes to the clean gain stage.

In order to ensure the shortest possible signal paths, all swit- ching functions are handled by optimally positioned, encap- sulated relays with gold-plated contacts—the switches them- selves only trigger the relays. Since resistors also greatly affect audio quality, the entire audio signal path utilizes painstakingly selected resistors with 0.1 % tolerance.

The op-amp circuits use premium FKP foil condensers, which sound much more open than ceramic types and provide more natural dynamic response.

All circuit boards have oversized grounding surfaces for optimal shielding.

In the case of the power supply, no expense was spared. After all, the power supply is one of the primary factors in the audio quality and overall sound of any device. Just like the best coffee beans in the world will not produce a good cup of coffee with poor water, the best circuits can‘t produce a great sound with unreliable, inconsistent current. The transformer delivers seven different voltages, each of which is separately screened and regulated: 250-V anode current for the tube, 12.6 V for tube heating and relays, 48 V for phantom power, 2 x 15 V for the LED‘s and 2 x 30 V for the audio signal path.

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