A BRAND best known for its bang-for-buck power cords, Pangea Audio has unveiled a new headphone amp/USB DAC, the HP201, which is a hybrid tube design and 24-bit/192kHz capable. And it’s another bargain, for a mere US$299!
According to the literature, the HP201 “combines Class A solid-state circuitry featuring Mosfet output devices with a premium vacuum tube to create the smooth, authentic headphone playback characteristics that music enthusiasts crave.”
Pangea engineering team head and designer Jay Victor says Mosfets were used rather than more affordable op-amp devices because of their performance advantages.
“I tested a variety of solid-state output devices and vacuum tubes in the design process of the HP201, selecting the combination I thought delivered the best performance despite their substantially higher cost,” said Victor.
The 12AX7 vacuum tube here is protected by shield that can be easily removed, making it less of a chore for tube rollers. The HP201 is built on a sturdy all-steel chassis featuring a 10mm machined metal face plate.
A “robust” output stage makes the HP201 compatible with a wide range of headphones, while its analogue stereo outputs link to a power amplifier – volume is controlled via the large, precision-machined aluminum knob. The HP201 also features a pair of auxiliary RCA inputs.
The internal linear power supply features an upgradeable rear panel IEC connector, enabling the use of a premium Pangea power cable.
The high-performance USB DAC section, which is 24/48/96/192kHz compatible, can be linked directly from a Windows or Mac computer. The heart of the DAC is the Cirrus Logic CS4344 24-bit/192-kHz chipset.
Available now from Audio Advisor.
