This product is a hybrid preamplifier that combines a vacuum tube and an operational amplifier.
The upstream operational amplifier adjusts volume and tone, while the downstream vacuum tube adds harmonic content. By leveraging the strengths of both the vacuum tube and the operational amplifier, you can enjoy the distinctive sound of vacuum tubes without unpleasant distortion, even at maximum volume.
It also incorporates renowned audio-specific components throughout for professional audio applications, while remaining affordable.
Renewed for the 4th batch, starting December 11, 2024.
- Input and output coupling capacitors changed to TDK EPCOS MKT capacitors. These capacitors offer a gentle, warm sound with high resolution, without the harsh harshness that can lead to listening fatigue, enhancing the sound quality of vacuum tubes.
- Other minor component changes.
There were no changes to the main board circuitry this time.
[How to Use]
Use this product between the output of your audio playback device, such as a CD player, DAC, or silicon player, and your power amplifier.
INPUT: Connect to the analog output terminal of a CD player, DAC, etc.
OUTPUT: Connect to the analog input terminal of a power amplifier, main amplifier, etc.
[Product Features]
■ 6K4 vacuum tube included as standard
The TUBE-03J used the 6J1 military tube as the included vacuum tube, but as the 6J1 is now difficult to obtain, the TUBE-03J+ uses the 6K4 as standard.
The design itself is based on the 6J1 and has been adjusted to work with the 6K4, but to experience its true potential, we recommend the 6J1 (sold separately).
This does not mean that the 6K4 is inferior, but rather that it has a different flavor, so one of the joys of the TUBE-03J+ is trying out your favorite vacuum tube.
■ Hybrid preamplifier with vacuum tube and op amp
The pre-buffer and tone control sections use the Texas Instruments audio-grade op amp "NE5532" (DIP socket type), which is renowned for its sound quality!
The rear stage features a hybrid vacuum tube circuit configuration, leveraging the strengths of both vacuum tubes and op amps to deliver high-resolution, deep, and rich sound.
■ Tone Control Function (Tone Direct Function)
■ Gain Setting Function
Two gain settings, High and Low, are available via the DIP switch on the back of the unit.
■ Equipped with a power transistor-based active filter circuit
■ Carefully selected components
■ Revised artwork for improved performance
■ Fully powered by 12V DC, with boosted voltage for complete noise suppression.
[Note]
※ AC adapter sold separately. Please purchase the recommended AC adapter at the same time.
※ This unit is a preamplifier. A separate power amplifier is required to connect to passive speakers (without a built-in amplifier).
[Product Specifications]
Brand: FX-AUDIO
Warranty Period: 6 months from the date of purchase
Input Terminals: Stereo RCA
Output Terminals: Stereo RCA
Functions: Tone Control (Bass/Treble), Gain Setting (High/Low), Tone Direct
Power Supply: Rated Voltage: DC12V, Power Capacity: 1A or More (AC Adapter Sold Separately)
Power Connector: DC Jack, Outer Diameter: 5.5mm, Inner Diameter: 2.1mm (Center Positive)
Accessories: Instruction Manual, Two 6K4 Vacuum Tubes (Available as a pair of Shuguang, Beijing, or Shanghai tubes; selection is not possible)
Dimensions: Height: 33mm (Maximum 76mm including tubes) x Width: 98mm x Depth: 118mm (Excluding protrusions)
Weight: 318g (With included tubes)
Specifications and design may be changed without notice for product improvement or other reasons.
Op Amp & Vacuum Tube Hybrid Preamp
Includes 6K4 vacuum tubes as standard, two-stage gain setting (High/Low), tone control (Tone Direct function), power transistor-based active filter circuitry, AC adapter required (sold separately), DC12V/1A, DC jack 5.5mm x 2.1mm (center positive)