The integrated amplifier / DAC Gato Audio DIA-250S with digital inputs is a complete analogue of the top-end amplifier DIA-400S, but with an output power of 250 watts per channel. This model is a combination of modern technologies, a non-trivial look at the design of audio equipment and the desire to make the best amplifier. In the Gato Audio DIA-250S amplifier, sound purity is ensured through the use of a number of original technologies proprietary to the manufacturer. This is a cascade system (Class-D) with an independent power supply, amplification using International Rectifier technology, a PWM modulator, an optimized RF generator and much more.
The Gato Audio DIA-250S amplifier has a technically advanced solution in the form of class D output stages with a separate power supply. The amplification part is built using proven International Rectifier technology, with an optimized precision high-frequency generator and PWM modulator. Fast and precise switching MOS-FET transistors with very low on-resistance ensure excellent high frequency operation with the lowest possible losses. Output filters with high-quality polypropylene capacitors and low resistance coils convert powerful PWM signals back into detailed and smooth analogue sound.
The built-in Digital-to-Analog Converter provides true High-End performance thanks to a dedicated power supply, a Burr-Brown PCM1794 chip with balanced output, an advanced current-voltage converter with an extended frequency range and an analog part with a low-Q low-pass filter. All digital inputs can be upsampled to 24bit/192kHz. This DAC can elevate any digital source – such as wired or wireless streaming audio – to higher levels of detail and musicality.
During development, we paid special attention to the versatility and communicability of the device. The Gato Audio DIA-250S not only offers a wide selection of digital and analog inputs, but also line outputs, a trigger for external power amplifiers, and a configurable home theater input. The home theater input can turn the Gato Audio DIA-250S into a fixed-gain power amplifier for uncompromising sound when used in surround sound systems.
The high-end sound is created by the coordinated work of a unique system: a built-in digital-to-analog converter with a separate power supply, a Burr-Brown PCM1794 chip with a balanced input, an updated current-voltage converter with a wider frequency range, and an analog part with low-pass filters. All this allows, for example, in combination with any digital source, to produce sound at the highest level of detail and musicality. The sound takes on a vintage tube hue, becoming more rich and noble.
The Gato Audio DIA-250S amplifier can be used equally successfully with any playback equipment, including home theaters. The model has enough input/output pairs of various types in order to be able to connect it with any equipment.
Updated models with the “S” index are not just improved versions of old ones, but rather new products based on the design of previous ones. We spent a year developing new DAC circuits and new input circuits, making changes to the output stages and power supplies. The firmware has also been updated and the connectors have been improved. Needless to say, the new amplifiers have noticeably improved sound quality: volume and picture have improved, calmness and detail are the key words to describe the changes.
The aptX® Bluetooth input built into the Gato Audio DIA-250S offers a high-quality solution for receiving audio streams from a PC, tablet or phone. This is a simple and well-functioning wireless interface option that is used by many people in everyday life, giving flexibility when using amplifiers.
Characteristics of Gato Audio DIA-250S
Output power (230 VAC): 2x 250 W RMS 8Ω / 2x 500 W RMS 4Ω
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.5 dB
2 Hz – 70 kHz ± 3 dB
THD (for power amplifier): < 0.01%
Signal-to-noise ratio: > 110 dB
Line output level (max): 13 V (balanced), 6.5 V (unbalanced)
THD (for preamp): < 0.001%
Input impedance: 20 kΩ RCA or 40 kΩ (balanced)
Line output impedance: 75 Ω
Gain: 26 dB
Recommended load impedance: 4 Ω – 16 Ω
Switching
Balanced analog inputs: 1 pair of gold-plated XLR (Neutrik)
Unbalanced analog inputs: 2 pairs of gold-plated RCA (Stereo)
Digital inputs: 1x USB type B, 1x Toslink, 1x RCA,
1x aptX Bluetooth 4.0 (DIA-250S model only)
Balanced analog outputs: 1 pair of gold-plated XLR (Neutrik)
Unbalanced analog outputs: 1 pair of gold-plated RCA (Stereo)
Acoustic outputs: 2 pairs of gold-plated terminals (safety banana)
Trigger, 12 V: 1 mini jack
Dimensions and power supply
Power requirements: 115 VAC / 230 VAC, 50 Hz / 60 Hz
Power consumption: Standby <1 W, Idle < 23 W, Max. < 1000 W
Dimensions (WxHxD): 325 x 105 x 420 mm /12.8 x 4.1 x 16.5 “
Weight: 10 kg
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