Предусилители — Audionet PRE G2

The PRE G2 is the reference line preamplifier of Audionet, the German company based in Berlin that designs its own operational amplifiers, pulse generators and signal cables for its top models. It is built in double-mono form, with the circuit layout arranged to avoid capacitive and electromagnetic interaction between the input and output stages, the power supply and the control system.

Key specs that matter

Inputs are five pairs of RCA line inputs and one pair of balanced XLR. Outputs are one RCA line pair, one inverting RCA pair, two balanced XLR pairs and one RCA monitor pair. Output impedance is 22 ohms. Frequency response extends from DC to 2 MHz (-3 dB) in DC-coupled mode and from 2 Hz to 2 MHz with AC coupling. Signal-to-noise exceeds 120 dB. The chassis measures 430 x 140 x 420 mm and weighs 15 kg.

Engineering and use context

Volume and balance are set by an electronically switched network of precision resistors that is linearised in real time, rather than by a potentiometer. The signal path is completely DC-coupled with no capacitors, input buffers present a virtually infinite input impedance, and the output drivers are discrete Audionet designs running in Class A with high bias current. Inputs are switched in both signal and ground by gold-contact precision relays. The control and signal circuits are separated electrically and galvanically through optical couplers, so the microprocessor cannot inject noise into the audio path. Two encapsulated 100 VA toroidal transformers feed audio capacitors with a combined 164,000 uF, and the control section has its own supply. The inverting RCA output allows bi-amping with two power amplifiers when the speaker polarity of one is reversed. The monitor output feeds a recorder, which plays back through input 6. The chassis is solid aluminium, input names and levels can be set individually, DC offset in source signals can be compensated, and mains phase is detected automatically. A home cinema bypass mode, Audionet Link for remote switch-on of other units and the metal RC 1 remote complete the feature set.

Pairing

The low output impedance and two balanced outputs make the PRE G2 suitable for driving long cables to monoblocks or two stereo power amplifiers for bi-amping. Audionet's AMP and MAX power amplifiers are its designed partners.

Alternatives

Audionet's PRE I G3 is the more compact preamplifier with a headphone output, subwoofer outputs and an optional phono board.