Ladder has released the Chopin II, a balanced preamp featuring a fully discrete circuit design and Class A output stages. This model stands out significantly from many other solutions on the market - the Ladder Chopin II operates with a gain of 0 dB, functioning essentially as a switcher and volume controller without applying any additional amplification to the input signal.
At the heart of the Ladder Chopin II lies a fully differential circuit built with discrete components, utilizing field-effect transistors (FETs) in the output stages. The frequency response spans from 10 Hz to 80,000 Hz with a deviation of only -0.3 dB; the signal-to-noise ratio reaches 120 dB, and the dynamic range exceeds 121 dB. Crosstalk between stereo channels is kept below -110 dB. The output voltage reaches 2 V RMS via RCA connectors and 4 V RMS via balanced XLR connections. The output impedance is 200 ohms (RCA) and 400 ohms (XLR), while the input impedance is 12,200 ohms for unbalanced connections and 60,000 ohms for balanced ones.
The Ladder Chopin II manages volume levels via a 60-step, microprocessor-controlled relay attenuator, which replaces a traditional variable resistor or potentiometer. The unit employs a linear power supply based on a 65-watt toroidal transformer with copper windings, complemented by high-quality ERSE capacitors. Eight independent, regulated power circuits distribute electricity to the various functional sections of the amplifier, ensuring electrical isolation and stable operating conditions. The recommended retail price for the Ladder Chopin II preamplifier is 1,545 US dollars, regardless of the chosen finish.
