CLASSIC 102i integrated amplifier

CLASSIC 102i is designed to further enhance the sound reproduction of our previous integrated amplifiers.

We have no hesitation in stating that we have entered a new era of low-noise and high harmonic contrast
circuits. This has been made possible by a new circuit design, a modern volume control system, state-ofthe-art components, and a range of advanced features that guarantee crystal-clear and precise sound.

One of the main features of CLASSIC 102i is its ability to amplify the audio signal without distortion and with a high dynamic range. The sound is reproduced with the utmost fidelity, without background noise,
alterations in frequency response, and the typical distortion that limits the dynamic sense of music.

Additionally, 102i is equipped with a variety of audio inputs and outputs, making it compatible with a wide range of devices. An exceptional MM phono input, a balanced input, and 3 line inputs make it possible to use this modern electronics with any source, from CD players to turntables.

The optional DAC with Hyperstream technology implemented on SABRE ESS 9038 q2m further expands the connectivity possibilities for digital and streaming enjoyment with an unparalleled level of reproduction.

Finally, we have also designed it to be easy to use and configure. Thanks to its simple and intuitive interface, you can set it up in minutes and start enjoying high-quality sound in an intuitive and fast manner.

 Balanced and dual mono circuitry

In the new 102i we have substantially increased the power of the power supply stage and we have developed the entire project with a dual mono philosophy. Each channel of the preamplifier has separate and excellently filtered and stabilized power supplies, as well as the entire ground planes.

This allows for extremely effective channel separation which translates into a very natural sound, with incredible and realistic focus and stage reconstruction. Each instrument remains well focused in space and the powerful power section promotes unprecedented dynamics.

The wiring reduced to a minimum, the conversion of the line inputs to balanced and the possibility of equipping the integrated amplifier with a high-performance DAC, which can always be updated in the future, guarantee absolute and immutable performance over time.

The entire project is completed by a high-performance RIAA PHONO section for lovers of vinyl records and the possibility of using the PRE-OUT / AMP-IN outputs selectable by remote control for unprecedented versatility.

The volume control section, a stage not to be underestimated.

The most delicate, fundamental part and to be treated with extreme care, because it is also this stage that overall determines the general performance of reproduction.

Unlike many manufacturers who use classic motorized potentiometers, we have developed a completely different stage which guarantees the project a set of very important performance advantages. We have implemented gain control via an array of armored Mos fets in a special IC which are controlled digitally. As a first factor, we have forever eliminated the wear of the carbon layer typical of traditional potentiometers and this forever eliminates the onset of the annoying Hum & Noise and Pop & Click that are inevitable with wear over time. 

Another advantage that is often overlooked is the linearity of the response which is modified as the volume increases or decreases with the use of carbon layer potentiometers or even the more sophisticated resistor array potentiometers. 

This happens when a resistance is found in the signal passing through the potentiometer which also modifies the impedance factor and which causes this artefact. The balanced circuitry. It's our philosophy, and we take pride in developing it to its fullest potential, always have. There are quite a few conflicting opinions on this configuration. Some claim it's pointless for home use, others argue it degrades and muddies the sound, while some say it's merely a ploy to drive up the cost of equipment for purely commercial purposes.
To some extent, all of this could be true only if this aspect of the design is neglected or poorly executed.

Recent technical tests in the field have also shown that if the overall design is executed properly, the end result can be considered the pinnacle in terms of musicality, transparency, and dynamics. In the CLASSIC 102i, nothing has been left to chance, starting from a dual mono power supply and circuitry, all the way to the very heart where each amplification section is duplicated. This includes the innovative volume control, which employs two separate stages for each channel on an array of digitally controlled MOSFETs. Furthermore, thanks to its native balanced nature, even single-ended line inputs are fully converted to balanced, including the RIAA PHONO stage. In very simple terms, you won't find a more dynamic and transparent preamplifier than this.

Thanks to our technology, however, this problem has been definitively eliminated because the signal does not see a resistance that varies as the knob changes but rather a network of mos-fet devices that act directly on the feedback of a high impedance and high bandwidth operational amplifier.

The optional DAC section:

it is possible to equip the preamplifier with a latest generation DAC stage which further expands the 102i's inputs for new digital technologies. 3 additional inputs USB, COAX and OPTICAL make the amplifier extremely versatile with a wide choice of connection options to best enjoy your music from your favorite source. Whether it is usable from streaming, from a CD player or from the television, with this section you will get the best in terms of reproduction and musicality.

The DAC reads files with conversion up to 384 Khz in PCM and DSD 256 in Dop or DSD 512 natively. Installation is very simple and the firmware automatically recognizes the DAC connection, enabling the appropriate controls and service menu section on the display..

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Made in Italy