The Audio-GD HE-9 MK3 represents a significant leap in audio innovation, building upon its predecessor, the original HE-9, which was first introduced in 2015. With a focus on enhancing sound quality and user experience, the HE-9 MK3 boasts a range of new features and improvements that set it apart from earlier models.
Regenerative Power Supply: A Private Electric Generator
At the heart of the HE-9 MK3 is its unique regenerative power supply technology, functioning like a private electric generator. This innovative system provides a clean and stable power source, significantly improving sound quality and transparency. By blocking disturbances from the power line, the regenerative power supply delivers ultra-clean power to the audio amplifiers, resulting in a more neutral and analog sound that is unparalleled in the industry. This is a marked improvement over conventional digital technology power processors and passive LC power filter outlets.
Real Balanced ACSS Pure Class A Headamp and Preamp
The HE-9 MK3 features a fully analog design, utilizing a real non-feedback ACSS (Active Current Source Signal) headamp. This system employs four channels of non-feedback output stages, integrating a total of eight transistors, each capable of delivering 15A/150W performance. The overall capacitance of the unit reaches an impressive 60,000uF, ensuring robust audio performance.
Key Enhancements in the HE-9 MK3
After years of careful development and customer feedback, the HE-9 MK3 introduces several new features:
- Enhanced Preamp Output: The preamp output now includes exclusive output buffers that elevate sound quality.
- Double Volume Control: This feature allows for better compatibility with different output level sources, providing users with greater flexibility.
- Consistent Design: The new model utilizes the same board for both left and right channels, ensuring precise measurements and assembly for consistency.
Improved Functionality
The HE-9 MK3 offers advanced functionality with:
- Four-channel 100-step digitally controlled relay-based volume control that minimizes channel imbalance.
- Two gain modes: Users can select between high gain (20dB) and low gain (10dB) for optimal pairing with various power amplifiers.
- Multiple Inputs and Outputs: The unit includes five analog inputs (2 RCA, 2 XLR, 1 ACSS), three preamp outputs (XLR, RCA, ACSS), and four headphone amp outputs (6.3MM, 4-pin XLR, 3-pin XLR *2).
Summary of Features
The HE-9 MK3 is characterized by its unique regenerative power technology, ensuring that pure, clean power is delivered to all audio components, akin to providing pure water for life. The regenerative design transforms AC power into DC power through a class A power supply, which then feeds into a balanced regenerative wave generator. This process creates an ultra-low distortion 50Hz wave, driving the regenerative transformers that produce clean AC power for both left and right channel preamps.
With a class A parallel connection PSU, the HE-9 MK3 achieves very high input impedance to prevent disturbances from affecting the signal parts, while maintaining low output impedance for fast, linear performance. This results in an exceptionally clean power supply, enhancing the overall listening experience.
