Unison Research Unico Pre v2 and DM v2 – Hybrid Preamplifier and Power Amplifier

The Italian audio manufacturer Unison Research has introduced a new amplifier set from the Unico V2 series, consisting of the Unico Pre V2 preamplifier and the Unico DM V2 power amplifier. Both components are built on a hybrid design and implemented in a “dual mono” concept.

Unison Research Unico Pre V2 is the new flagship preamplifier in the Unico lineup, featuring an elegant and modern design. The front panel of the new model is made of 15 mm thick aluminum and gives an impression of solidity. The Midnight Black and Velvet Gold finishes highlight every detail, while the carefully treated surface feels pleasant to the touch and looks striking. A 2 mm thick aluminum top cover wraps around the entire chassis and enhances the sense of strength and visual integrity. Wooden inserts reference the historic Unico logo and emphasize the connection with the brand’s traditions. The Unison Research emblem is placed in the center and integrated into the power button – an instantly recognizable detail that combines functionality with brand identity.

In the Unico PRE V2 preamplifier, volume control is implemented using a high-quality integrated circuit with precision resistors. According to the manufacturer, this ensures perfect channel balance and extremely accurate level adjustment while preserving signal integrity under all operating conditions.

Unison Research has completely redesigned the amplifier architecture while remaining faithful to its zero-gain philosophy and the “dual mono” concept, both long associated with naturalness and musicality. The new three-stage structure, according to the company, is designed to deliver a more balanced, dynamic, and engaging sound.

The input stage, built around a pair of ECC83 / 12AX7 Gold Lion tubes, defines the sonic character of the preamplifier and provides high signal purity, extremely low distortion, and very quiet operation. The following semiconductor stages are matched with the tube section and are intended to provide smooth, precise, and consistently musical reproduction even under the most demanding conditions. The Unico PRE V2 preamplifier, as the manufacturer claims, is designed for maximum versatility. It is equipped with analog RCA and XLR inputs, as well as digital inputs. A phono stage input for connecting a vinyl turntable is also provided.

In addition to a balanced XLR output, there are two unbalanced RCA outputs for bi-amping, an output for an active subwoofer, and Line In/Line Out connectors that are convenient for connecting external audio processors or recording devices. The package is complemented by a 3.5 mm trigger output, allowing synchronized power-on of power amplifiers or other devices, which simplifies day-to-day use of the system.

The DAC built into the preamplifier is based on the Sabre ES9018K2M chip from ESS Technology. The DAC’s balanced output architecture is designed to optimally match the preamplifier’s tube stages, ensuring high conversion quality and tonal consistency. The digital section offers a wide range of connections: a USB input, two coaxial S/PDIF inputs, and two optical inputs.

The built-in phono stage uses passive RIAA equalization and high-quality components in order to preserve the quality and naturalness of the analog signal as much as possible. The ability to select loading and gain allows operation with both MM and MC cartridges, adapting the phono stage to the cartridge in use.

Unison Research Unico DM V2 is the new flagship stereo power amplifier in the Unico series, also featuring a fully updated, modern design. Its appearance, like that of the Unico PRE V2 preamplifier, matches the new style of the Unico family. The front panel, like the preamplifier’s, is made of 15 mm aluminum; the same finishes are available – Midnight Black and Velvet Gold.

The Unico DM V2 amplifier is also built in a “dual mono” concept: each channel is powered by a separate shielded and resin-potted 750 VA toroidal transformer. This solution is intended to minimize electromagnetic interference, ensure complete channel separation, and create a wide, stable, and three-dimensional soundstage. The amplifier supports bridged operation, in which the two channels are combined into one and the power supplies are connected in parallel – to provide an even greater energy reserve.

The three-stage amplification circuit is designed to combine musicality, control, and dynamics. The first stage, operating in Class A, is tube-based (two ECC82 / 12AU7 Gold Lion tubes) and is the “heart” of the amplifier: it is intended to provide speed, rich detail, and natural sound capable of conveying the emotion of the music. The second stage, based on semiconductors, transparently interfaces the signal with the output stage. The output stage uses an innovative push-pull configuration with complementary technology: three pairs of MOSFET transistors are connected in parallel. This design is intended to deliver the required current into the load and, according to the manufacturer, provides tight control, greater dynamics, and consistently smooth sound.

In the Unico DM V2 amplifier, Unison Research has implemented the so-called ASHA technology for the first time – an important technical evolution that is becoming the foundation of the new Unico series, developed around this solution. The technology leads to a new exclusive output-stage configuration designated as Class A-AB, combining the brand’s signature Class A musicality with the efficiency and reliability characteristic of Class AB.

ASHA technology, according to the manufacturer, delivers a distortion level that is practically inaudible to the human ear and keeps it constant all the way up to maximum output power. The result is the most natural sound possible, rich in micro-detail and capable of conveying musical complexity without “tricks.” Even at low volume, the amplifier retains body, control, and bass depth, creating a rich and engaging sound under any conditions.

At the same time, the Unison Research Unico DM V2 is a very powerful amplifier: a generous and constantly available energy reserve allows it to confidently drive even the most difficult loudspeakers. In bridged mode, the two power supplies are electrically connected in parallel, and the dual-mono architecture effectively becomes a true monophonic amplifier with a single powerful power supply. This configuration makes it possible to maximize the available energy capacity and is designed to guarantee power delivery into both 8-ohm and 4-ohm nominal loads. This translates into instantaneous dynamics, strong impact, and a sense of absolute control – without sacrificing refinement and naturalness. Unison Research specifies maximum output power per each of the two channels at 270 W into a nominal 8-ohm load and 340 W into 4 ohms. In bridged mode, it becomes a monoblock capable of delivering 650 W into 8 or 4 ohms.

The recommended retail price of the hybrid Unison Research Unico Pre v2 preamplifier is USD 7,499. The hybrid Unison Research Unico DM v2 stereo power amplifier is offered at USD 10,999. The new products are expected to go on sale soon.