The resurgence of analog technology represents a return to rich, warm sound that many audiophiles crave. The TB-100 Tube Phono Equalizer stands as a testament to this movement, offering an exquisite listening experience through its innovative use of vacuum tubes and optical cartridges.
Pure Vacuum Tube Amplification
At the heart of the TB-100 lies a carefully curated selection of quad-matched ECC82 (12AU7) tubes. Each of these tubes is optimized specifically for this model, ensuring that performance variations during operation are minimized to an impressive 1% (0.1dB). This meticulous attention to detail guarantees peak audio performance for even the most discerning listeners.
The amplifier’s design features a dual-tube configuration for each channel: an inner tube dedicated to voltage amplification and an outer tube for output buffering. This arrangement not only enhances the richness of the audio but also ensures a transparent sound quality. The straightforward two-stage amplification circuit, combined with low-impedance cathode follower output stages, contributes to a pure and dynamic audio experience that is hard to match.
Advanced Signal Processing
The TB-100 is equipped with a wideband transformer input, which plays a critical role in converting the audio signal from the phono device into a current-voltage signal. This conversion process is designed to maintain precise phase alignment between the left and right channels, leading to a balanced and harmonious sound output.
Moreover, the design achieves a remarkably flat frequency response within -1dB across a broad spectrum from 10Hz to 70kHz. This wide range ensures that every nuance of the music is captured, delivering clear and high-quality sound that resonates with audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
Twin Mono Structure for Enhanced Clarity
One of the standout features of the TB-100 is its symmetric twin-mono configuration. This design incorporates completely independent grounds and power transformers for each channel, effectively eliminating crosstalk and allowing for a cleaner and more immersive soundstage. The result is a listening experience that feels expansive and alive, drawing listeners deeper into the music.
Low-Noise, Low-Voltage Power Supply
To further enhance performance, the TB-100 includes a dedicated low-noise regulated power supply. This power supply caters to the LED power and the negative bias voltage of the phono device (PD). The inclusion of separate power circuits and transformers for each PD ensures greater voltage stability, allowing the cartridge to perform at its best.
