850P

by Simaudio


The 850P, heralded as "the ultimate analog preamplifier," boasts unparalleled tr...

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The 850P, heralded as "the ultimate analog preamplifier," boasts unparalleled transparency in sound reproduction. Celebrated by Brian Damkroger from Stereophile, who praises it as "the most transparent preamp—or audio component of any sort—that I've heard," this device sets a high bar for audio clarity. Building on its reputation, Jeff Dorgay of TONEAudio describes the 850P as a "rare component" that effectively vanishes, allowing nothing but the pure music to flow through it, claiming no other component reveals more music.

Adding to its technical prowess is a sophisticated two-chassis design, which aids in isolating the audio circuits within a second box to ensure heightened signal accuracy. This structural choice is critical for enhancing sound integrity and detail, positioning the 850P at the forefront of preamplifier design.

Furthermore, it incorporates a unique suspension system aimed at complete microphonic annihilation, a feature that contributes significantly to its ability to produce a strikingly natural and lifelike sound. This meticulous attention to reducing microphonics ensures that the 850P delivers an audio experience that is as close to the original recording as possible, free from any unwanted noise or interference.

Features

General Features:

  • Chassis Design: 2-chassis design
    • Chassis 1: Houses power supply, digital controller circuitry, software processing, and LED display.
    • Chassis 2: Contains only audio circuitry.

Power Supply:

  • Voltage Regulation: Independent Inductive DC Filtering (i2DCf)
  • Special Feature: 1 inductor per IC in the signal path, totaling 40 stages.

Audio Features:

  • Gain Offset Adjustment: ±10dB for each line input.
  • Configuration: Each line input can be configured for "home theater ready" mode, bypassing the volume control.

Input Characteristics:

  • Number of Inputs:
    • XLR: 3 pairs
    • RCA: 5 pairs
  • Input Sensitivity: 200mV - 4.0V RMS
  • Input Impedance: 11,000Ω
  • Gain: 9dB

Output Characteristics:

  • Number of Outputs:
    • XLR: 2 pairs (fixed + variable)
    • RCA: 2 pairs (fixed + variable)
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio (20Hz-20kHz): 130dB @ full output
  • Frequency Response: 5Hz - 100kHz ±0.1dB
  • Crosstalk @ 1kHz: -130dB
  • Output Impedance: 50Ω

Distortion:

  • THD (20Hz - 20kHz): 0.0005%
  • Intermodulation Distortion: 0.0001%

Physical Specifications:

  • Shipping Weight: 151 lb / 67 kg
  • Dimensions per Chassis:
    • Width: 18.75 in / 47.6 cm
    • Height: 4.0 in / 10.2 cm
    • Depth: 16.5 in / 41.9 cm