Descrizione

“High-end” Pure Valve

Introduced in 2005 the PS1 has proved to be one of our best sellers. This model has had many excellent reviews in the worlds Hi Fi press.

New for 2013 are new cosmetics, and improved power supply and the compatibility with our new MC transformers.

It is well know that valves can sound much better than transistors, this is especially so with LP reproduction. Mainly because:

The massive overload of valves prevents distortion on highly modulated or worn LPs therefore reducing noise.
The “warm” sound of valves is well suited to the reproduction of analogue music from LP.
The huge 40db RIAA difference between 20 Hz and 20 kHz is easier for valves than transistors.
Our “passive” design uses no “feedback”
Our simple design uses “hi fi” components.
We use “hand wired” “point to point” wiring with no printed circuit board.It is essential that that these precious few microvolts of signal from the pickup cartridge go straight in to the valve without any switches or coupling capacitor in the way to add sonic impurities.
The PS1 story from David Shaw Icons founder:

“I designed the PS1 for maximum musical detail, but without exaggerating the imperfections through wear or older records. Valves are much more tolerant to overload and distortion, they recover quicker and distort less than transistors. Therefore valves will deal with the huge transient spikes present in imperfect LPs better than transistors. This gives a much more pleasing sound”.

We like the sound of “moving coil” pickups and produced our own special 10x step up transformers. We also designed the PS1 to have a higher than normal output, so it is possible to connect directly to power amplifiers without a pre-amplifier. It is fitted with a volume control. This gives a very pure sound quality.

Our remarkable long published record still stands (09/2013) that no PS1 has been returned to us as “unsuitable” despite the thousands sold.

The PS1 has become a “Reference Standard” for Hi Fi World.

Summary:

Our original acclaimed PS1 design updated and upgraded. Faithfull to the analogue traditions of vinyl.

Moving Magnet or Moving Coil?

Moving Magnet types are generally cheaper, and have the advantage of a high output.

Moving Coil pickups have a low output, they are generally more expensive.

But most hi fi fans prefer MC pickups. The LP original “Master” is cut with a moving coil stylus.

MC pickups need special transformers to give extra gain. We fit our own custom design and made transformers. They have a very smooth detailed sound. These may be fitted at the time of order or after purchase.

The front panel switch then allows you to easily choose either MM or MC input.

Specifications and Features

Built in volume control, suitable for most power amplifiers
Stereo/mono switch for lower noise from mono LPs
Choke power supply
Separate Power supply for lower noise
Comprehensive manual supplied
All hand wired point to point
No printed circuit board to spoil the sound
Japanese Blue ALPS volume pot.
All Triode valves 3x ECC83
Sensitivity: 3mv for 1.26v output (0.3mv MC)
Gain MM 53db MC 72db
Load: imp: 47k MM, 100 ohms MC
Output source impedance 50 ohms
Signal to noise level -75db (MM)
RIAA Freq response 20hz-20khz +0 – 1db
NO global feedback used
High quality resistors
Hi Fi quality audio capacitors
Silver PTFE audio cable
Gold plated Input/output terminals
220/240volts (also 115v), 50watts
C E. Conforms to ROHS and WEEE
Pre-amp 170mmW, 265mmD, 105mmH , 2.87kg
PSU 120mmW, 235mmD 160mmH 3.9kg
Shipping size/weight 40cm x 35cm x 28cm 9kg
(Specifications subject to change, errors & omissions excepted January 2013)

MC