Предусилители — German Physiks Emperor Preamplifier

The Emperor Preamplifier is the line-level control unit of the Emperor Extreme electronics range from German Physiks, the German company owned by Holger Mueller and otherwise known for its loudspeakers. The range was introduced at Axpona in Chicago in 2019 together with a stereo power amplifier, mono power amplifiers, an integrated amplifier and audio cables. The preamplifier is designed and built in Germany, and its US price was USD 19,750.

Key specs that matter

Each channel has three balanced and three unbalanced inputs, plus two balanced and two unbalanced outputs, so the unit can feed more than one power amplifier in a multi-amp system. German Physiks quotes a frequency response of 0.5 Hz to 95 kHz at the -3 dB points, THD+N of 0.001% and 103 dB A-weighted noise performance via the XLR connections. Dynamic range is given as 140 dB, and maximum output reaches 20 V into 600 ohm. The case measures 474 mm wide, 160 mm high and 474 mm deep, the unit weighs 33 kg, and the warranty runs for 5 years.

Engineering and use context

All gain stages are fully discrete and balanced from input to output, and the layout follows a dual mono arrangement so that both channels are built symmetrically. High voltage supply rails give the wide dynamic range figure. Volume is set by a balanced relay-switched resistor network rather than a conventional potentiometer, which keeps input and output impedance constant at every setting and holds the two channels closely matched. Two independent toroidal transformers, each in its own screened enclosure, power the audio circuits and the control section separately, and these transformers account for most of the weight. Mains power does not pass through the front switch - a high-current relay makes the connection instead. Components run well inside their electrical ratings, and internal airflow is planned for cooling and long service life. A 15 mm thick silver anodised aluminium outer case sits over an internal steel chassis that provides magnetic screening, and the design was refined with computer modelling. A large front display shows volume and input, can be dimmed and lights briefly when a control is used, and the supplied infrared remote has a machined aluminium body.

Pairing

German Physiks designed the unit to partner its own Emperor stereo and mono power amplifiers, though third-party power amplifiers of good quality are also supported. A front-panel ground lift switch helps clear hum caused by ground loops when the preamplifier is combined with equipment from other makers.

Alternatives

German Physiks lists no other line preamplifier besides the Emperor, leaving no model of this type to compare within the brand.