Cayin is commemorating its 30th anniversary with the launch of the Cayin Pearl 30i. This flagship tube amplifier embodies the pinnacle of Cayin’s craftsmanship, offering more than just an impressive price tag.
The Pearl 30i features two meticulously designed components that fit together seamlessly. One houses the entire amplification system, while the other is solely devoted to the power supply, powered by four robust power transformers. The design ensures a distinct separation and independent voltage supply to the left and right channels. Cayin has handpicked each component and strategically arranged the amplification stages to deliver an unparalleled high-end auditory and visual experience, as described by Cayin for their newest offering.
The Pearl 30i from Cayin offers versatile placement options, allowing its two components to be stacked or positioned side by side. This design flexibility is especially striking in the tower configuration, which accentuates the amplifier’s sophisticated aesthetics. Central to its design is the volume knob, offering fine adjustment across 106 steps for precise volume control, facilitated by the internal JRC Muses 72320V controller for exact level selection. Above this control element, an elegant wooden panel adds a touch of class, housing four toggle switches and a VU meter for visual and functional finesse. These switches manage the VU meter and its backlight, alter the sound timbre and operating mode, and select the input channel. A display at the front completes the design, providing clear information about the selected channel.
To ensure the highest efficiency and performance, the Cayin team has allocated the power supply of this distinguished amplifier to a separate enclosure. Within this unit, electricity is bifurcated for the left and right channels and then meticulously managed by two power transformers. This design ensures that both the high-voltage amplifier stages and the low-voltage components receive an optimal power supply. The refined electricity is then transmitted to the amplifier unit through designated outputs using specially designed cables. These cables are equipped with SF20 connectors, feature a 7-pin configuration, and are made of silver-plated 6N copper, setting the stage for the Pearl 30i to receive an impeccable and performance-aligned power supply.
The pre-amplification stage of the signal is expertly handled by two Mullard CV4004/12AX7 tubes. Following this initial stage, the signal undergoes further refinement at the driver stage by four TungSol 6SN7GTB tubes, which are mounted on porcelain bases for superior stability and performance. Only after this meticulous processing does the signal advance to the final stage.
The culmination of this process is achieved through the use of eight KT-170 tubes, where the signal is amplified to the output level utilizing the Class AB1 push-pull technique. The output transformers, featuring windings made of high-purity copper strands, are wrapped around Z11 audio-grade silicon steel sheets, ensuring the signal’s utmost purity.
A key component of this system is its sophisticated auto-bias circuit, which automatically adjusts to the perfect bias setting, guaranteeing optimal tube operation and maximizing their lifespan. The amplifier’s performance is continuously monitored by an optical bias monitoring indicator, which ensures the system remains within optimal operational parameters. Should any irregularities be detected, the amplifier transitions to a secure operating mode, allowing for safe troubleshooting and maintenance without risking damage or danger.
The Pearl 30i offers two distinct operating modes for outputting the signal, catering to various musical tastes and genres. The Triode mode is known for producing a harmonious and gentle sound, making it an ideal choice for instrumental music and compositions where vocal clarity and richness are paramount. On the other hand, the Ultralinear mode provides a higher performance potential, favored for its capacity to handle dynamic music with greater impact.
Additionally, the amplifier allows for further customization of the sound through its timbre selection feature. The dynamic setting delivers a more intense, fuller sound, whereas the soft option provides a mellower audio experience. Ultimately, the choice of settings boils down to personal preference, encouraging users to explore and find their preferred auditory experience. All these adjustments, including input selection and volume control, can be conveniently made from the comfort of your sofa with the included remote control.
To position the Pearl 30i as the centerpiece of your hi-fi system, Cayin has equipped it with an extensive array of connections. It accepts signals through four pairs of line inputs or a balanced XLR input, ensuring comprehensive signal processing. For those preferring to use an external preamplifier, Cayin includes both an RCA pre-in and a balanced XLR pre-in. The currently selected input is clearly displayed on a large dot matrix screen. For added versatility, the Pearl 30i features two outputs for connecting active subwoofers. Speaker outputs cater to 4 or 8 ohm impedance speakers and are conveniently located next to the connectors for the two components. Power output is robust, offering 145 watts RMS per channel in Triode mode and 230 watts per channel in Ultralinear mode, providing ample power for a wide range of audio setups.
Availability and price
The recommended retail price of the Cayin Pearl 30i in a black finish is $22,000.
