CryosoniC V1. Headphone Amplifier
V1 is an amplifier with a special operating principle that is different from all other amplifiers. It is special in that it converts the input drive signal to current and the feedback to the speaker is also current, unlike „conventional” voltage feedback. This amplifier breaks with tradition altogether and breaks new ground. Accordingly, its measurable parameters are outstanding, such as a 6MHz bandwidth and fully linear phase transfer characteristics up to 100kHz. The V1's internal circuitry utilises state-of-the-art integrated circuits and next-generation current conveyor (OTA) topologies to achieve exceptional parameters. Using technologies based on international research, unprecedented speed parameters such as 1000V/us signal rise rate have been achieved. Perfectly accurate phase mapping promises a full experience of true resolution and accuracy.
The Cryosonic V1 amplifier is characterised by outstanding microdynamics, and its ability to reproduce the finest details with precision and correct proportions makes it suitable for studio work and as a monitoring amplifier. In addition to the XLR inputs (right and left channels), the amplifier also has XLR line out connectors, which can be adjusted within a wide range with the Gain pot, making the V1 suitable for use as a preamplifier. In addition, of course, the front-panel symmetrical and asymmetrical output jacks allow you to connect a variety of dynamic headphone types to the output. As with the musical genres, the V1 is not indiscriminate in the types of headphones it offers, although we recommend mid- to high-end pieces to fully experience the amplifier's capabilities. The internal signal routing is entirely true symmetrical and there are no components in the signal path that particularly impair transmission, such as coupling capacitors.
A notable feature of the amplifier is its macrodynamics and extremely low distortion even at high excursion levels. The amplifier can drive impedances below 10 ohms without any problems and without stalling or degradation in performance. There is no type of headphone on the market that is difficult to drive that the V1 can't handle, so it is particularly recommended for driving headphones that are difficult or impossible to drive without distortion at higher volumes with other amplifiers.
Perhaps the most important feature of the amplifier is its musicality, its ability to create atmosphere and the fluidity and flow of the reproduced music, which makes the recorded musical event easy to take in. The V1 makes it really enjoyable to reproduce sounds and musical details that are easy to focus on, yet the creators are most proud of the fact that all these qualities are marginalised, as in the long run, the V1 makes for trouble-free and immersive listening from switch-on to switch-off.
The V1 does not follow the sonic character of the classic big semiconductor brands, nor that of tube amplifiers. Rather, the development has been a kind of synthesis of the best features of these. The V1 has not undergone any particular „tuning” methodology common in the high-end field. Modern, reproducible and innovative technical content was the primary objective.
The V1 has a number of built-in protection features for maximum security. The amplifier's operating status is indicated by a programmable, colour-coded circular on/off pushbutton in the centre of the front panel. The V1 is supplied with 2 medical-grade safety power supplies, which are completely isolated from the mains supply, thus eliminating ground loops and other noise that could interfere with the proper operation of the other elements of the system.
Specifications
| Output Power | 1 watt per channel at 16 ohms 3 watts per channel into 50 ohms |
| Frequency Response | 0 Hz - 6MHz at RMS~1V output / 0 Hz - 500 kHz at full power |
| input impedance | 20k ohms |
| THD + Noise | 0.001%, 20 Hz - 50 kHz |
| PWR supplyes | 2 pc 15V/30W medical PSU |
| Overall Gain | adjustable |
| Inputs | 1 pr balanced (XLR) |
| Outputs | 1 pr balanced (XLR) and 1 balanced (XLR) headphone and 1 unbalanced 6.3mm headphone |
| Amplifier Weight | 1.3 kg |
| Overall Amplifier Dimensions (h/w/d) | 80mm x 190mm x 190mm |