Ladder has introduced the Chopin II, a fully-balanced, fully discrete Class-A line-stage preamplifier built around precise analog volume control and a low-noise linear power supply. The Ladder Chopin II combines XLR and RCA connectivity, a microprocessor-controlled 60-step relay attenuator, precision-matched components, and remote operation in a compact aluminum-alloy chassis.
The Ladder Chopin II’s Fully-Balanced Class-A Architecture
The Ladder Chopin II uses a fully-balanced differential amplification circuit with discrete field-effect transistors for output amplification. The signal path is designed for strong noise rejection and consistent channel balance, with a specified signal-to-noise ratio of 120dB and stereo crosstalk of -110dB. Volume adjustment runs through a microprocessor-controlled, relay-based 60-step attenuator, with precision-matched resistors and components supporting accurate level changes and channel tracking, while a front-panel display shows the selected input and volume setting at a glance.
A Low-Noise Linear Power Supply
A 65W pure-copper toroidal transformer supplies the Ladder Chopin II, backed by a bank of ERSE capacitors and eight independently regulated power supplies distributed throughout the circuitry to help maintain stable operating conditions and limit electrical noise. The rear panel provides two balanced XLR input pairs and one RCA input pair for source components, with outputs available through both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA connections, making the Chopin II suitable for integration with a range of power amplifiers and active audio systems. Gold-plated single-crystal copper RCA terminals handle the single-ended analog connections.
Compact Chassis, Front-Panel Control
The Ladder Chopin II’s aluminum-alloy enclosure keeps the component relatively compact while accommodating the discrete audio circuitry and its substantial linear power supply, measuring 320 x 330 x 60mm. The left front-panel control handles power, source selection, standby, and mute functions, while the right control adjusts volume, and remote control is supported for adjustment from the listening position. The Ladder Chopin II is available in silver and black finishes.
Pricing and Availability
The Ladder Chopin II is priced at $1,545 USD and is available now through Apos Audio in silver or black finishes.
Key Specifications
- Architecture: pure Class-A, fully-balanced, fully discrete line stage
- Volume control: 60-step microprocessor-controlled relay attenuator
- Inputs: 2x stereo XLR, 1x stereo RCA
- Outputs: stereo RCA (2.0 Vrms), stereo XLR (4.0 Vrms), unity gain (0dB)
- SNR: 120dB; stereo crosstalk: -110dB; frequency response: 10Hz-80kHz (-0.3dB)
- Power supply: 65W pure-copper toroidal transformer, eight independently regulated supplies
- Chassis: aluminum alloy, 320 x 330 x 60mm, 6.5kg net weight
- Available colors: silver, black; price: $1,545 USD
With the Chopin II, Ladder is aiming the preamplifier at listeners who want a dedicated, fully-balanced Class-A line stage rather than an integrated amplifier, giving them a compact component to pair with separate power amplifiers such as the Riviera AFM100SE.
