AudioCircle
Industry Circles => Audio by Van Alstine => Topic started by: avahifi on 4 Jan 2010, 10:16 pm
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Announcing the AvaStar preamplifier, our new star of musical reality.
The AvaStar is a completely new and unique engineering approach to our goal of perfect music playback. It offers features and functions we have never done before, all to improve your musical enjoyment and system compatibility.
New and Unique - - - The AVA AvaStar preamplifier uses a never before done combination of active devices and circuits to allow a vacuum tube hybrid preamplifier to reach much further into the music and bring it to the rest of your system, and to your ears, completely transparently and unrestrained. The main line amplification tubes are 6CG7 types followed by a unique current buffer inside the feedback loop. The tube does no work, the buffer circuit has less than .0003 percent THD. It is an unequaled combination. Of course it continues our leading edge power supply design, with an independent high voltage, analog, high speed, high current regulator for each plate of each tube. There are eleven power supply regulators in a fully optioned unit. The entire active circuit set, options and all, are done on a new double sided full ground plane gold plated circuit board. It is the most complex circuit board I have ever designed, and by far the best.
System compatibility - - - The AvaStar preamplifier has six sets of line level inputs (one used for the RIAA phono circuits if so optioned) done with gold plated RCA jacks, It also has optional balanced line output and balanced line input capabilities, done with XLR jacks. It has an astonishing headphone amplifier. switched and fused AC outlets, dual tape inputs and outputs, dual audio outputs, and of course gold contact switches. A motor driven precision volume control is available too. The AvaStar preamp has a time delay output relay to protect your amplifier and speakers from on or off transients from equipment upstream.
Musical enjoyment - - - The sound is just involving and alluring. The image is huge and the music reaches for your heart and draws you in. Live attacks, live dynamics, live reach into the artist. You listen not to the tunes, not to the notes, not to the instruments, but to the emotional output of the performers. I can't explain it in words any better than this. For us, it is a unique and new experience. For you, we expect it will be the same.
The base price is $1799.00 plus $30 shipping in the continental USA.
Lots of Great Options.
RIAA Phono Circuits. These are the best RIAA phono circuits we have yet designed, and when combined with the hybrid line stage, provides simply wonderful phono playback. For cartridges of 1.5 mV or higher output. Price $199.00
Buffered Tape Output Circuits. Absolutely necessary if you use analog tape recorders or signal processors connected to the tape loops. These circuits isolate your sources from whatever is connected to the tape outputs and drive any connected load. Price $199.00
Phase Inverter Circuits. These circuits allow you to connect the AVA AvaStar preamp to two stereo amplifiers for direct bridged mode very high power output. These are available at the Line 2 output jacks if ordered. Includes a second set of output protect circuits, one for the normal outputs, one for the inverted outputs. Price $199
Motor Driven Remote Control Volume and Mute Functions. Complete with sender. Price $299
Balanced Line Outputs with XLR output connections. You want balanced line out, you got balanced line out. Price $250
Balanced Line Inputs (one source only). If you need balanced line in too, one set of inputs can be provided with this capability, again accessed by XLR connectors. Price $250
Upgrades to 17" wide chassis older AVA tube and hybrid SL preamplifiers are possible. This is accomplished by recycling your finished chassis. Note that recycled chassis will not allow the balanced line in and balanced line output options as we had to redesign our chassis to provide these functions that many have requested. You save $500 when we install the complete new AvaStar circuit set in your older AVA chassis.
The AVA AvaStar preamp is available right now. All options are available right now too, except the balanced line in and outs which still await some new hardware. These options will be available in about six weeks. Available factory wired only, 17" wide, 12" deep, 3.5" high, 15 pounds.
The AvaStar circuit does not support tone controls. The improved Ultra EC+ preamplifier remains in production for those demanding this function.
Listen and you will hear. We think the AvaStar preamp, the star of Frank Van Alstine and friends engineering efforts, dedicated to the most musical audio reproduction possible, has been realized here with the best sound you have ever experienced. Our normal three year parts and labor warranty and 30 day satisfaction guarantee on new equipment applies of course. Our three year warranty applies to upgrades too, but not the satisfaction guarantee.
By the Way: The Ultra EC and T-8 preamps remain in production, but each with a nice upgrade at no increase in cost. These units are now shipping as "+" versions, using the much more musical sounding 6CG7 tubes. This took some real work to fit these taller tubes in the chassis.
The new Insight SL and EC preamplifiers will remain in production as is. They are great more economically priced all solid state units with awesome performance and will remain available for a long time.
We have lots of outstanding choices for you. Call us at 651-330-9871 for more help.
Frank Van Alstine
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Woot!
A lot happening at AVA!
Frank, are you discontinuing the Insight preamp?
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Whoops, I need to clarify. The new Insight SL and EC preamplifiers will remain in production as is. They are great more economically priced all solid state units with awesome performance and will remain available for a long time.
Thanks for the question, I went back and fixed the original posting.
Regards,
Frank
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Last week, the Vision DAC. This week, AvaStar preamp.
Does this mean that next week you'll be introducing a brand new amp? aa
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Boy, Frank, really awesome. If I can swing it, I'll look into picking one of those up in the spring. Will it look like the present product, i.e. faceplates, layout?
Keep up the good work!!
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No, other than the fact that our Ultravalve tube amplifiers' new faceplates finally came in today and we can now ship, our Ultra and Insight power amps are still going strong and will remain our best amplifiers for a long time. Of course they will sound better than ever with a Vision DAC and an AvaStar preamp ahead of them.
That is all of the new product announcements for the time being. We can only do so much here at the same time. Tonight I am tired, but happy.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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Hi Frank,
Will new production power amps have an option for balanced input? UltraValve?
Happy New Year
Dave
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Hello
Looks really nice. I dont see it on your website, or is it?
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Phase Inverter Circuits. These circuits allow you to connect the AVA AvaStar preamp to two stereo amplifiers for direct bridged mode very high power output. These are available at the Line 2 output jacks if ordered. Includes a second set of output protect circuits, one for the normal outputs, one for the inverted outputs. Price $199
Frank,
Can the phase inverter option be used on only one amplifier, like the current AVA Ultra and Insight phase inverters?
Thanks,
Jerry
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A few questions: Are there any FETs used any more? (not counting the power supply) Also, does the new Phono stage still use 12AX7 tubes? I am guessing it uses the same new buffers as the high level stage?
Congrats on the new design.
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Yet another question...I assume the processor loop is not available as well?
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I had a feeling these 6CG7 tubes were going to magically find their way into the production units. Hats off!
Me too. :D Very Impressive. I'm particularily intrigued by the phase inverter circuits.
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A few questions: Are there any FETs used any more? (not counting the power supply) Also, does the new Phono stage still use 12AX7 tubes? I am guessing it uses the same new buffers as the high level stage?
Congrats on the new design.
I think it will use the Insight+ solid state phono board which is totally awesome.
Wayner
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I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new www.avahifi.com website. I hope it contains lots of pictures detailing the new product line!!
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Thanks for your interest in the new AvaStar preamp. Here are answers to
some of the questions so far:
Dave -- regarding balanced inputs on the amps: We are not offering
balanced inputs on the power amplifiers.
A few further observations regarding the balanced line out and in options.
These are being offered primarily to allow an easy interface of the AvaStar
preamplifier with "foreign" (non AVA) equipment that require these connections.
In an all AVA system, these options are redundant and will not improve
the sonic quality at all. They are offered for user convenience only. If you
don't absolutely need them, do not order these options.
Werd -- regarding on the Web site: We are working on a new Web site
that will include all of the new products.
Otis -- regarding including the new preamp in the integrated product:
If you are talking about the Insight control amp, then no we will not be
including this design in that product. The reason is that the Control
Amp is a high gain version of our Insight power amplifier along with the
inputs, volume and balance controls found in the Insight preamps. It has
no active preamp section at all. If you are talking about the recently
announced preamp/DAC combo, that unit is only available as the
Vision DAC and Insight preamp. The reason is that the AvaStar preamp
board is very large, and there is no room for the DAC boards.
Jerry -- regarding the phase inverter option: The phase inverter will
work exactly the same as it did in previous preamp designs.
Tom -- regarding using FETs in the new preamp, and phono: There are no
FETs used in the audio circuits. After a lot testing of various phono
configurations, we found that using a version of our solid state phono section
with an improved power supply in the AvaStar preamp was the best.
Toka -- regarding the processor loop: The AvaStar is only available in
the SL chassis. For those who want the processor loop, additional
inputs and tone controls we are still offering the Ultra+ EC and Insight
EC.
Thanks much for your interest,
Larry and Frank
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Jerry -- regarding the phase inverter option: The phase inverter will work exactly the same as it did in previous preamp designs.
Thanks, Larry and Frank! :thumb:
That is exactly how I expected it would work.
For those who are curious, here is a drawing (http://www.avahifi.com/root/equipment/bridge/bridge_wiring_single_amp.htm) of the connection.
Can this be done to a T8+? :drool:
Thanks again,
Jerry
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This seems like it will be a very nice preamp. Congrats on your new design! Too bad I'm all out of money after ordering a new Vision DAC! :thumb:
Just out of curiosity, is the headphone amp design/circuitry the same that has been previously implemented, or has that been tweaked, too? Thanks...
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Since the headphones are driven by a special passive output network directly from the amazing new AvaStar hybrid line stage, headphone performance is significantly improved too. :)
Best regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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hello
Can we expect any pics in the near future? Like to see it.
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(http://www.avahifi.com/images/preamp/ava/UltraSL.gif)
Wayner
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that looks nice.... thanks Wayner.
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The front looks exactly like all other SL chassis preamp models, as expected.
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Yah, but you should see the insides, where all the real beauty is. :)
Regards,
Frank
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Yah, but you should see the insides, where all the real beauty is. :)
Regards,
Frank
Lets see it!!!
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Frank, Im I correct in assuming that the big AvaStar circuit board isn't suitable for EC chassis? Having never used the tone controls, filters or EPL on my Ultra EC, I'm beginning to think I don't need them... I do find the Low Gain switch useful for matching different inputs (i.e. phono and DAC).
Do you have any plans for in house 6CG7 retrofit of Ultra preamps?
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Lets see it! Just as soon as we can put together a spare new one for photographs. Right now my "finished produce" is in the scuffiest old big chassis around here, used for generations of protoscrap circuits and not very pretty, kind of like the inside of a dead hippo.
Putting the new Vision board in an EC chassis. The problem is what will you do with all the now none functional pretty tone control knobs and switches. I guess we could do it (same upgrade policy) and everything should work except the tone controls. I had not thought about that yet or tried it here. I have not made a close examination to see if there would be any expensive "gotchas" yet.
If you want to send an Ultra or Fet Valve EC in for the upgrade we will certainly have go at it.
I suspect the best reason not to would be economics. I think a good working EC series preamp should sell for much more the $500 chassis credit we can allow for recycling your chassis.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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Frank,
so you're saying that the AvaStar is so much better than the Ultra EC that it doesn't need tone controls? Even with old recordings (and late 60's rock recordings!) that don't sound very good?
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The AvaStar hybrid preamp line circuits do not support tone control loops. There is a big conflict between the biasing for best performance of this unique circuit and what available tone control pots allow.
If you need tone controls, go for the Ultra+ EC or Insight+ EC models.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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You're right. It wouldn't make much economic sense to retrofit an Ultra-EC just to get 2 more inputs, EPL and low gain switches. It also doesn't seem cost effective for you to make a "hybrid" chassis and faceplate - EC without tone controls - just for the AVAStar model.
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One way to aesthetically retrofit might be to include a new faceplate without the cutouts for the tone controls and extra buttons. This would work unless the remaining knobs aren't in the same positions on the chassis.
Putting the new Vision board in an EC chassis. The problem is what will you do with all the now none functional pretty tone control knobs and switches. I guess we could do it (same upgrade policy) and everything should work except the tone controls. I had not thought about that yet or tried it here. I have not made a close examination to see if there would be any expensive "gotchas" yet.
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That's probably a good idea, if the preamp isn't an older model that has the rectangular switches for upper functions. AVA tries very hard not to leave anyone out of the loop when upgrades are done, where/when possible. This is another reason why the design of the mechanics doesn't change very much. Fashion changes will leave many older customers in the dust. This is not part of the thinking. Recycling the chassis has always been a top priority and I'm sure that direction will not change.
Just my opinions however.
Wayner :D
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Yah, but you should see the insides, where all the real beauty is. :)
Regards,
Frank
Hi Frank,
It's been interesting over the years to watch this preamp develop. You went from the 12at7 tubes to the 6N1P, and now the 6CG7 tube. From what I surmized, that the Insight Preamps were sounding just about as good as the Ultra preamp, with the Ultra not quite having the bass that the Insights did. So you just had to top it. That's awesome. Now for some questions?
So do you think you will ever go to a three prong cord with a detachable cord?
Did you ever look in to using a stepped attenuator? Yeah, I know they are more expensive than the standard volume pot. I recently ran across a manufacturer on Audiogon, with a 48 stepped Attenuator, the ladder Series type for $129, and a shunt type for $99. The main advantage of the stepped Attenuator is the tracking of the volume. Some say they actually sound better than the standard carbon Volume Pot. Anyway, if interested, PM me and I'll pass along the site to you. Honestly, not trying to post a commercial here, just telling people of the stepped Attenuator 48 step pot for a good price.
Ray Bronk
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The AvaStar hybrid preamp line circuits do not support tone control loops. There is a big conflict between the biasing for best performance of this unique circuit and what available tone control pots allow.
If you need tone controls, go for the Ultra+ EC or Insight+ EC models.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
Hi Frank,
So are you gonna upgrade the Hybrid amps too with the upgraded circuitry?
Ray Bronk
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Post from Frank from earlier in the thread:
No, other than the fact that our Ultravalve tube amplifiers' new faceplates finally came in today and we can now ship, our Ultra and Insight power amps are still going strong and will remain our best amplifiers for a long time. Of course they will sound better than ever with a Vision DAC and an AvaStar preamp ahead of them.
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Detachable power cords.
First, we only want a two wire AC connection, a polarized two conductor cord. I have seen too many hum inducing ground loops when some equipment has three wire connections. Of course some three wire units simply do not connect the third wire chassis ground inside the chassis to avoid this issue, which of course is not a safe thing to do as the three wire cord implies a different internal connection set than actually used.
Second, we really do not want to leave our clients a prey victim to those selling absurd $1000 power cords and such. Who knows underneath the fancy dialog and purple prose how they are really and how well constructed? Did they get the polarity right? Too many risks for us to impose on our clients in the name of magic sound.
Yah my Oppo Blue Ray player has a really heavy three conductor removeable power cord. Yah, for my convenience and listening and viewing pleasure it falls out of the chassis if you breath too hard on the player.
Third, there simply are no decent two conductor AC sockets and cord connection sets of 16 gauge or higher. All we can find are plastic things suitable for clock radios and such. We even have to have special order a solid two conductor polarized 16 gauge power cord for our equipment.
If any of you can come up with a solid and reliable two conductor polarized removable power cord set, please let me know. However we would still get anguished cries because it is two conductor only, not usable with the customer's cherished three conductor cord set.
There is no way to win with this issue. The object is the music, not the BS accessories.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
Now back to the AvaStar preamplfier. Further power cord comments in this thread will be deleted.
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Regarding "stepped attenuator," this is simply a fancy and expensive name for a volume pot.
Our volume controls match channels within a scope trace from full on to full off. It would be pointless to put in an "audiophlake" grade control just to be able to write more fancy advertising literature and raise the prices more for that feature.
We build in what is necessary to get the the music out as perfectly as we know how to do and pass on those expensive bits that do nothing useful. A stepped attenuator is going to have a jillion little swtich contacts, each subject to wear and drop out. We have yet to have a Noble or Alps precision control fail over the years except for a detent spring issue with some Noble pots that we have resolved in house.
I really don't understand the questions regarding frivolious details instead of about the AvaStar performance itself.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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So how many of you would pay $150 or so extra for an EC version of the new AvaStar preamp that included 8 sets of switchable inputs instead of six, and in addition to the standard functions, a switchable EPL in and out loop, and a front panel "Low Gain" function? No tone controls.
We could do this with another new faceplate and a rework of the EC switch board. Actually we could do this with the Insight preamp too.
We also could do this with any earlier EC based unit being upgraded to an AvaStar.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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I would not pay $150.00 extra for more inputs that I wouldn't use. But that doesn't mean that others wouldn't have the need. I don't even know what the heck "balance outputs and inputs" are, what so balance about them?
All I need are inputs for phono, tuner, two tapes loops (I don't even think I'd need two), and maybe one or two extra.
I don't have any surround sound, all as suchl should be keep as options.
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If any of you can come up with a solid and reliable two conductor polarized removable power cord set, please let me know.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
Now back to the AvaStar preamplfier. Further power cord comments in this thread will be deleted.
http://www.neutrik.com/fl/en/audio/204_390365502/powerCON_20_Amp_productlist.aspx and they are locking.
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I think the need for different inputs is going down nowadays, with equipment at the performance level of AVA. The user will probably have some kind of (fancy?) DAC and that would be the gadget requiring multiple inputs.
The "low gain" button sounds like a good idea. If it does not otherwise harm performance, then by pressing it the user might be able to put the volume knob nearest its "best" setting. If it's done right (which it will be, surely!), then it'd be worth paying something extra for it.
Actually, I have been wondering about this for a little while, how does the typical AVA preamp implement volume attenuation? I assume it can be modelled as a resistor in series, but is it optimized (i.e. resistance minimized) for 12 o'clock, or for full volume?
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So how many of you would pay $150 or so extra for an EC version of the new AvaStar preamp that included 8 sets of switchable inputs instead of six, and in addition to the standard functions, a switchable EPL in and out loop, and a front panel "Low Gain" function? No tone controls.
I would.
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I would.
Me too...any preamp I end up buying will likely find itself in a hybrid HT setup, so maximum flexibility is key. The EPL loop would help...or even just a (buffered?) pass-through for a surround processor.
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:duh: What's "balanced"? Time to do a little reading up on stuff! Generally balanced ckts do nothing in a home setup. It does impress the foolish, so scammers that sell $15,000 pre amps can write lotsa fancy wurds about it. In commercial or studio environments it matters.
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http://www.neutrik.com/fl/en/audio/204_390365502/powerCON_20_Amp_productlist.aspx and they are locking.
:duh: I don't think a Neutrik connector of this style is needed for a home unit. A bit of overkill.
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:duh: What's "balanced"? Time to do a little reading up on stuff! Generally balanced ckts do nothing in a home setup. It does impress the foolish, so scammers that sell $15,000 pre amps can write lotsa fancy wurds about it. In commercial or studio environments it matters.
Interesting, and how does it help in the studio in a way that it doesn't work at home?
Nvm this is a gear introduction thread and doesn't need to be overrun by mindless debate.
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Balanced lines are less susceptible to picking up hum fields in very long runs. In recording studios, there can be 50-100 feet+ cable runs, not likely to be used in a home. Also, studios have lots more equipment radiating EM fields.
Balanced lines became fashionable in home audio because it could be marketed it as "professional", and the audio rags picked up on it, espousing their usual "imaginative" attributes, which were absorbed into the psyches of their true believer dittoheads.
To have a balanced line, there has to be double the output and input circuit components, increasing circuit complexity. Interestingly, some of the same people who proclaim the sonic virtues of balanced lines, also are convinced of the sonic wonders (and circuit theory) of "pure and simple" SETs, which are the exact opposite of balanced circuits...
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Interesting, and how does it help in the studio in a way that it doesn't work at home?
The way I understand it, "balanced" is for long runs of input cable, so that it will not pick up extraneous noise. Cable runs in a studio typically are quite a bit longer than you will have in a home environment.
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So how many of you would pay $150 or so extra for an EC version of the new AvaStar preamp that included 8 sets of switchable inputs instead of six, and in addition to the standard functions, a switchable EPL in and out loop, and a front panel "Low Gain" function? No tone controls.
I see no reason... With digital sources becoming the standard, all our items are moving towards a convergence anyway. To be honest, I see no need for more than 3 or 4. One for a tuna; One input from the DAC; One input from the turn-table--for the old school analog folks. Now--I've got a reel-to-reel...and it sounds nice and all...but no way I'm I going to pull that thing out when I've got all my content on a digital format.
The real point of convergence for switching is really at the DAC these days--an issue that you have resolved w/ your latest product.
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So how many of you would pay $150 or so extra for an EC version of the new AvaStar preamp that included 8 sets of switchable inputs instead of six, and in addition to the standard functions, a switchable EPL in and out loop, and a front panel "Low Gain" function? No tone controls.
Forgot to ask...does the "no tone controls" caveat apply to the filter switch as well? I'll go ahead and ass-u-me it does, but figured I'd ask anyway. 8)
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Yes, to build a EC version of the AvaStar preamp, the tone controls, the tone control switch, and the filter switch would not be continued.
It would have 8 sets of inputs, switchable EPL loops, and Low Gain functions.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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Question:
If I ordered the AVStar Preamp with Phase inverter option to use with my 5 channel power amp and used two ch. for normal plus two ch for inverted , would this serve the same purpose as using two diferent amps? I know this sounds crazy, still I wanta explore all my options. :D
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The amplifier(s) used for this purpose must have a common ground wiring scheme at the amplifier outputs, which I'm not sure in your case of a multi-channel amplifier.
Wayner :D
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Now that I'm done shoveling snow, I've come to the conclusion that your multi-channel power amp will not work for this application, because all of your commons make be linked together and that won't work either.
You really need 1 single chassis amplifier and run the left and right as shown below, or:
(http://www.avahifi.com/images/phase_inverter/bridge_hookup_one_amp.jpg)
Or get two identical power amplifiers and run them like this:
(http://www.avahifi.com/images/phase_inverter/bridge_hookup_two_amps.jpg)
Wayner :D
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Any preamp I won must have Tone Controls. It's unfortunate this new one doesn't have them :(
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Then go for the Insight+ EC preamp. I have 2 of them and simply love 'em.
Wayner :D
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The nicely upgraded Ultra+ EC hybrid preamp remains available with tone control at the same old price. We were able to fit low profile tube sockets in it to accommodate the taller (and much better) 6CG7 tubes at no increase in price.
It is probably as nice a preamp as you will find out there with tone controls.
Sorry, the circuit topography of the AvaStar circuits will not work with tone control feedback circuits. We could do it with a separate tone control board, but that would have to be solid state and would cost more than an Ultra+ EC in any event.
Remember that there is a 30 day satisfaction guarantee on all new AVA equipment, so if you order an Ultra+ EC and it does not meet your expectations, simply return if for a refund, less shipping costs.
Best regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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Balanced lines are less susceptible to picking up hum fields in very long runs. In recording studios, there can be 50-100 feet+ cable runs, not likely to be used in a home. Also, studios have lots more equipment radiating EM fields.
Balanced lines became fashionable in home audio because it could be marketed it as "professional", and the audio rags picked up on it, espousing their usual "imaginative" attributes, which were absorbed into the psyches of their true believer dittoheads.
To have a balanced line, there has to be double the output and input circuit components, increasing circuit complexity. Interestingly, some of the same people who proclaim the sonic virtues of balanced lines, also are convinced of the sonic wonders (and circuit theory) of "pure and simple" SETs, which are the exact opposite of balanced circuits...
x2
I had to login to give this quote a cheerful :thumb:
Cheers,
Ian
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Thanks for the answer Wayner.
Cant beat the satisfaction gaurantee
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In a unbalanced line the positive signal is the center of the pin and the neg is the outer shield wire?
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Correct!
Wayner
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Just read through the thread, and am wondering if down the road the unit will come with a phone section capable of working with carts in the sub 1.5 mV range - the output voltage of my Denon DL-103R = 0.25mV.
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This preamp really looks intriguing.
I'm interested in learning more about the headphone out. What were the design goals? (e.g. absolute clarity, analog-type warmth, low noise, high output, etc.) Is it designed to handle all types of impedances (30 ohm for Grados, 300+ for Sennheisers)?
Was it voiced with any particular type of headphone?
What kind of voltage swing can it produce?
Thanks,
Jonathan
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The nicely upgraded Ultra+ EC hybrid preamp remains available with tone control at the same old price. We were able to fit low profile tube sockets in it to accommodate the taller (and much better) 6CG7 tubes at no increase in price.
It is probably as nice a preamp as you will find out there with tone controls.
Sorry, the circuit topography of the AvaStar circuits will not work with tone control feedback circuits. We could do it with a separate tone control board, but that would have to be solid state and would cost more than an Ultra+ EC in any event.
Remember that there is a 30 day satisfaction guarantee on all new AVA equipment, so if you order an Ultra+ EC and it does not meet your expectations, simply return if for a refund, less shipping costs.
Best regards,
Frank Van Alstine
Oh, the Ultra+ EC hybrid preamp has the new 6CG7 tube upgrades? Sweeeeeeet!
Thanks!
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Jonathan,
AVA design goals have been and are always “do no harm”. The best we can do is amplify the information encoded in either analog or digital on the record or CD without adding or subtracting anything.
The head phone circuit will handle any load form 30 ohms and up. I use Grado SR225's purchased in 1995 with excellect results.
Regards,
Dean
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Just read through the thread, and am wondering if down the road the unit will come with a phone section capable of working with carts in the sub 1.5 mV range - the output voltage of my Denon DL-103R = 0.25mV.
I can't answer as to whether or not AVA is considering such an option but with low-output MC's (and the Denon's in particular) I really like running them through a Cinemag SUT...yea, its an extra box, but it works soooo well.
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Is there a second pair of outputs? Or a optional second set?
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All new AVA preamplifiers have two sets of audio outputs, two sets of tape inputs, two sets of tape outputs, and at least four more sets of line inputs, one set used for RIAA phono circuits if that option is installed. The tape inputs can be used as additional line inputs if not needed for recording.
In addition, there are three switched AC outlets, headphone jack and awesome headphone driver circuits, and lots more.
The new AvaStar hybrid preamp also has options for balanced line out with XLR jacks, and one line input can also be optioned for balanced line in and XLR fittings.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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All new AVA preamplifiers have two sets of audio outputs, two sets of tape inputs, two sets of tape outputs, and at least four more sets of line inputs, one set used for RIAA phono circuits if that option is installed. The tape inputs can be used as additional line inputs if not needed for recording.
In addition, there are three switched AC outlets, headphone jack and awesome headphone driver circuits, and lots more.
The new AvaStar hybrid preamp also has options for balanced line out with XLR jacks, and one line input can also be optioned for balanced line in and XLR fittings.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
Frank if one orders the new pre with the phase inverter option will there be a second set of audio outputs (for sub woofer application ect..)?
Thanks
Ric
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If you order an AvaStar preamp with the phase inverter option, the second set of line output is normally used for that function. However we can add another set of output jacks so you can have the inverter and two sets of non-inverted output at the same time.
Keep in mind that the summed inverted and non-inverted outputs driving a amplifier in the bridge mode will have 6 dB more gain than the additional set of non-inverted outputs only.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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Thanks for your interest in the new AvaStar preamp. Here are answers to
some of the questions so far:
Dave -- regarding balanced inputs on the amps: We are not offering
balanced inputs on the power amplifiers.
A few further observations regarding the balanced line out and in options.
These are being offered primarily to allow an easy interface of the AvaStar
preamplifier with "foreign" (non AVA) equipment that require these connections.
In an all AVA system, these options are redundant and will not improve
the sonic quality at all. They are offered for user convenience only. If you
don't absolutely need them, do not order these options.
Werd -- regarding on the Web site: We are working on a new Web site
that will include all of the new products.
Otis -- regarding including the new preamp in the integrated product:
If you are talking about the Insight control amp, then no we will not be
including this design in that product. The reason is that the Control
Amp is a high gain version of our Insight power amplifier along with the
inputs, volume and balance controls found in the Insight preamps. It has
no active preamp section at all. If you are talking about the recently
announced preamp/DAC combo, that unit is only available as the
Vision DAC and Insight preamp. The reason is that the AvaStar preamp
board is very large, and there is no room for the DAC boards.
Jerry -- regarding the phase inverter option: The phase inverter will
work exactly the same as it did in previous preamp designs.
Tom -- regarding using FETs in the new preamp, and phono: There are no
FETs used in the audio circuits. After a lot testing of various phono
configurations, we found that using a version of our solid state phono section
with an improved power supply in the AvaStar preamp was the best.
Toka -- regarding the processor loop: The AvaStar is only available in
the SL chassis. For those who want the processor loop, additional
inputs and tone controls we are still offering the Ultra+ EC and Insight
EC.
Thanks much for your interest,
Larry and Frank
Hi Lary and Frank,
Slightly confused, as you list the tape loop buffer for the new preamp for $199, and now you say it's not available in the new version?
I do have a question for the FET valve amplifier. Are you Are you gonna upgrade the circuitry to utilize the 6CG7 tube as opposed to the 12AT7 tube, or was it the 6N1P tube? I'll have to go back to the website and read up on the amps.
Ray Bronk
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Ray, the tape loops and the EPL loops are different things.
All the preamps have tape loops and the buffered tape output circuits is for the tape loops.
Only the EC preamps have the EPL (external processor loops). I suppose one could use the tape buffer circuits to drive the EPL outputs too, it would take a second board set, but since that loop is out of circuit when not used, it is not as critical.
Regards,
Frank
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I know I need the second set of out-puts because I sometimes use my sub. I dont quite understand how the external processor loop works :scratch:. I have my HT processor intergrated with my 2 channel now using a pre-amp which has a "by-pass", actually it has two line inputs which can be selected to be pass-through. "Pass-through" or unity gain, meaning the pre-amp controls are not be used and the pass-through unit is in control. I thought I might use one of these inputs to pass-though the AVAstar and use it for two channel. Maybe the EPL would work better :eyebrows:?
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Vulcan00, please send me your e-mail address and I will send you a .pdf file showing our recommended complete surround sound hookup using an AVA preamp.
The EPL is the best interface because it can be turned completely on or off and the very high quality line stage of our preamp always drives your front amplifier.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
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Vulcan00, please send me your e-mail address and I will send you a .pdf file showing our recommended complete surround sound hookup using an AVA preamp.
The EPL is the best interface because it can be turned completely on or off and the very high quality line stage of our preamp always drives your front amplifier.
Regards,
Frank Van Alstine
I would like to see this pdf as well. I sent you a pm with my email.
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The EPL loop information is at the bottom of the page.
http://www.avahifi.com/images/avahifi/root/audio_basics/ab_pdf/ab2000.pdf
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Frank:
Sorry to be so late responding to your info on the EPL loop you so gracously emailed me. The EPL loop in my case would be mandatory. It regiures a extra step over what I am presently doing. The extra step of setting the pre-amp volume(AVA) to a reference point doesnt present too much of a problem. Besides being one extra step it does reguire the pre-amp to be on and it means the signal must pass threw two volume points? The affect of two volumes in Home theater wouldnt matter to me.
I have however seen the light!!!!! :D Although I will continue to enjoy movies and concerts on 5.1, 7.1 systems,my choice of music standard format is 2channel. Thus implementing Home Theater and 2ch means using one room one set of speakers for me.
Far be it for me to give you design advise but here goes :oops: . I could not measure up to 1/1000000 of your experience and audio talents :oops:.IMHO the most reconized,understandable and straightforward method for intergration is the Home theater By-pass. HT-ByPass; the unit gain method where the pre-amp simply gives the ht processor the control by passing its signal internally , whether on or off through one of its designated imput. Right or wrong most notivce like myself reconize and are comfortable with this method. If you think the EPL method results in the superior sound for 2ch ,I would respect that and note that consideration in the methods. I still think(for what thats worth :lol:) the by-pass method would result in capturing the majority of persons seeking the intergration of these listening formats.
I would love to try the AVASTAR pre.
Best Regards
Harrison
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Quote from Frank.
"Musical enjoyment The sound is just involving and alluring. The image is huge and the music reaches for your heart and draws you in. Live attacks, live dynamics, live reach into the artist. You listen not to the tunes, not to the notes, not to the instruments, but to the emotional output of the performers. I can't explain it in words any better than this. For us, it is a unique and new experience. For you, we expect it will be the same."
Yep Frank is right again. I sent my T7ECR back for upgrade to the AvaStar. Got here late Thursday. I was up until 2am listening to music. Couldn't bring myself to turn it off it's that darn good. Gotta sleep sometime though!
Cheers
Charlie
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Any magazine reviews slated for this model (or ones that I may have missed)? Word has it it mates up well with Magnepans.
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The Absolute Sound has requested a Fet Valve preamplifier and Fet Valve 600R power amplifier for review.
"The word" is correct, the Fet Valve 600R and 400R will get the very best and more from your Magnapans.
Frank
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My monster VTLs are going to the grave with me (the wife says the coffin will be made out of speakers) but I could always use a new preamp.
Has pricing been determined yet? It looks like it's a brand new addition to your web site.
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The Fet Valve preamplifier will sell for $2499, silver faceplate, blue LED, and amazing new no feedback Kayser/Broskie circuits and all.
Lots of options, lots of built in functions, and amazing emotional and involving sound.
It will be shipping in about a month.
Thanks for your interest.
Frank Van Alstine
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The Fet Valve preamplifier will sell for $2499, silver faceplate, blue LED, and amazing new no feedback Kayser/Broskie circuits and all.
Lots of options, lots of built in functions, and amazing emotional and involving sound.
It will be shipping in about a month.
Thanks for your interest.
Frank Van Alstine
Hi Frank,
Any progress to report yet on the new amp and preamp?
Ray Bronk
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Hi Ray,
We are ready to go building the new Fet Valve preamp, DAC, and 400R and 600R amplifiers just as soon as we get our production run of new silver faceplates.
Due to a small screwup, they got delayed a month in the metal finishing process. All should be fixed now and we should see them within two weeks I hope.
Otherwise, we have working units, complete and thoroughly tested, of all Fet Valve units, just waiting for new faceplates.
Of course we have been doing lots of 400R and 600R upgrades, keeping the old black and gold cosmetics, with outstanding feedback from our clients.
Thnaks for your interest.
Frank Van Alstine