DS Audio is set to launch its inaugural vacuum tube phono equalizer, the TB-100 Vacuum Tube Phono Equalizer, on January 7, 2025, with a retail price of $16,000.
The TB-100 features carefully selected quad-matched “ECC82 (12AU7)” tubes. To ensure optimal performance, the company employs proprietary tools that minimize variations in the vacuum tubes during operation to within 1% (or 0.1dB). Each channel incorporates a vacuum tube for voltage amplification internally and another for output buffering externally, resulting in a rich and transparent sound quality.
Additionally, the design includes a straightforward amplification stage that consists of two single-stage amplifiers paired with a low-impedance cathode follower output stage, promising a pure and dynamic audio experience.
Wideband transformer input
The audio signal from the PD (solar cell) is converted from current to voltage, ensuring precise phase alignment between the left and right channels. This design achieves a flat frequency response within -1dB across a broad range from 10Hz to 70kHz, delivering clear and high-quality sound.
TB-100 vacuum tube phono equalizer
Twin mono structure
The amplifier features a symmetrical twin mono architecture, complete with independent ground and power transformers. This configuration effectively eliminates interference between the left and right channels, allowing for a clearer and more immersive soundstage.
Equipped with a low-noise, low-voltage power supply
The system includes an LED power supply and a dedicated low-noise constant-voltage power supply for the PD negative bias voltage. By utilizing separate power circuits and transformers for the left and right PDs, the design enhances the stability of the voltage supplied to the cartridge.
Specifications
- Rated output voltage: 500mV (1kHz)
- Input terminal: RCA terminal
- Output terminal / RCA terminal
- Output impedance: Approximately 700Ω
- Size: W440 × H150 × D482mm (including terminals)
- Weight: 18.7kg
