Technical Audio Devices Laboratories (TAD) has taken the wraps off its latest addition to the esteemed Reference Series of HiFi audio components: the TAD-C700 Preamplifier. Set to make its debut at the upcoming High End Munich 2024 event in May, this new flagship preamp promises to elevate the standard of performance in the world of high-end audio equipment.
Replacing its predecessor, the TAD-C600, which has enjoyed a decade-long tenure as a beloved choice among audiophiles, the TAD-C700 comes with a host of technical refinements and enhancements aimed at delivering an unparalleled listening experience.
At the heart of the TAD-C700 lies a carefully crafted single-stage current-feedback amplifier, designed to faithfully reproduce every musical nuance with precision. This minimalist approach to amplification minimizes distortion and interference and should ensure a pristine audio signal path from input to output.
Additionally, dedicated output amplifier circuits for each line output prevent signal branching and maintain signal integrity, preserving the purity of the audio signal.
The preamplifier boasts fully balanced circuitry and a dual-mono design, effectively eliminating amplification errors and achieving maximum symmetry between channels. This configuration sets the stage for near-perfect stereophonic sound reproduction, delivering an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of the original recording.
The TAD-C700 incorporates a range of innovative design elements aimed at optimizing performance and minimizing unwanted vibrations. A separate power supply unit, connected to the main amplifier section via a dedicated cable, prevents vibration and magnetic flux leakage from affecting the delicate audio circuits.
This kind of attention to detail extends to the use of high-quality materials, such as oxygen-free copper, in critical components to eliminate magnetic distortions and provide the purity of the audio signal.
To further enhance stability and reduce vibration-induced artifacts, the main amplifier circuit is mounted on a sturdy sub-chassis made from pure aluminum ingots. This vibration-suppressing design ensures that the preamplifier remains unaffected by external vibrations, allowing for uncompromising audio reproduction.
Equipped with four balanced and two unbalanced inputs, as well as two balanced and two unbalanced outputs, the TAD-C700 offers flexible connectivity options to accommodate a variety of audio sources and setups. A dedicated recording output bypasses the selector circuitry, ensuring direct access to input signals for recording purposes.
Also, the preamp features a pass-through mode that maintains the integrity of input signals without altering their level, providing greater flexibility in audio routing.
For users seeking to expand their audio setup, the TAD-C700 offers synchronous control of multiple units, allowing for seamless integration into multi-channel systems or dual-mono configurations. This versatility ensures compatibility with a wide range of audio setups and preferences, catering to the diverse needs of audiophiles and enthusiasts alike.
Technical Specifications:
The TAD-C700 preamplifier is slated to hit select dealerships worldwide in June 2024, with a retail price of $68,500.
