ThivanLabs Presents Ultimate 300 Flagship Tube Preamplifier
ThivanLabs has unveiled its flagship offering, the Ultimate 300, a dual-block tube preamplifier that harnesses the renowned 300B directly heated vacuum tubes. This Vietnamese company's latest innovation stands out with its comprehensive phono stage, accommodating both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, as well as optical cartridges from DS Audio. Available in sleek silver and classic black finishes, the Ultimate 300 features a separate power supply unit, ensuring optimal performance and minimal interference.
A key aspect of the Ultimate 300's design is the use of 300B tubes in the main amplification stage, operating in a single-ended Class A configuration with zero feedback. This setup is complemented by ThivanLabs' proprietary transformer output technology, specifically tailored for the 300B tubes. Such a combination promises an exceptionally dynamic and detailed musical reproduction, catering to the discerning audiophile's expectations for clarity and depth.
The power supply of the Ultimate 300 receives particular attention, incorporating multiple specially designed inductors to stabilize the amplifier's circuitry. These inductors undergo rigorous testing to achieve superior noise filtration, providing a swift and robust energy source while maintaining the utmost detail and musicality. This meticulous approach to power management sets the Ultimate 300 apart from other preamplifiers that rely solely on filtering capacitors.
Flexibility in tube selection is another highlight, allowing users to experiment with different 300B and 6SN7 tubes to explore varying tonal characteristics. Each pair of tubes is recommended to be matched for balanced sound output, and the auto bias mode ensures compatibility across different tube brands. Connectivity options include both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, catering to diverse setup requirements and ensuring minimal signal interference.
With a frequency range spanning from 6 Hz to 50 kHz (+/- 3 dB), the Ultimate 300 delivers a wide and precise audio spectrum. Weighing 24 kg for the preamplifier and 18 kg for the power supply, the units measure 45 cm in width, 40 cm in depth, and stand at 29 cm and 15 cm in height respectively. While pricing and availability for the Benelux region remain forthcoming, the Ultimate 300 positions itself as a premium choice for audiophiles seeking top-tier tube preamplification.
