The launch of the Virtus S1S, a state-of-the-art solid-state reference power amplifier that redefines performance standards in its category. This Class AB amplifier is designed to deliver the first few watts in pure Class A, ensuring optimal sound quality and fidelity for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.
Innovative Heat Dissipation Design
One of the standout features of the Virtus S1S is its unique heat dissipation system, which employs copper plates to effectively manage thermal output. These copper plates, with a substantial cross-section of 350 mm², facilitate heat dissipation without the need for heat-conducting washers. This innovative design significantly enhances the efficiency of heat transfer from the power transistors, resulting in a more reliable and stable performance.
The copper plates not only serve to dissipate heat but also play a crucial role in the amplifier’s operation by supplying voltage from high-capacity capacitors to the active components. This design choice minimizes output impedance and allows the amplifier to deliver dynamic peaks directly to the speakers, ensuring a more responsive and engaging listening experience.
Unmatched Sound Quality
The Virtus S1S boasts an impressive ultra-low distortion rate of just 0.006% at 1 kHz and 5 watts, placing it at the forefront of its class. This achievement is made possible through the implementation of specialized error correction circuits that linearize the output stage. By employing local feedback techniques, each amplification stage is corrected individually, effectively preventing transient distortion before it occurs. This approach allows for a less aggressive overall feedback circuit, which enhances sound clarity and accuracy.
Exceptional Amplification Architecture
At the heart of the Virtus S1S is a fully symmetrical amplification stage that utilizes high-quality complementary J-FET transistors in the input section. This meticulous design choice ensures that the audio signal is amplified with the utmost precision, resulting in a rich and detailed sound profile.
The amplifier features five pairs of output transistors per channel, each selected for their matched parameters. This ensures uniform load distribution across individual components, contributing to the amplifier’s high damping factor and ultra-low output impedance. These attributes facilitate a tighter control over the speakers, allowing for a more dynamic and engaging audio presentation.
Robust Construction and Isolation
The Virtus S1S is built with durability and performance in mind. The power and signal sections of the amplifier are mechanically separated and shielded by 10 mm thick aluminum shielding. This design not only enhances the amplifier’s robustness but also minimizes interference between different sections, ensuring that the audio signal remains pure and untainted.
