Accuphase has announced the C-3900S, the company’s new flagship preamplifier, built like a tank and weighing in at 25 kilograms. The new C-3900S is, according to the company, a new pinnacle, culminating in some fifty years of preamplifier development experience. Yes, it’s a tank, but it’s a delicate one.
The Accuphase C-3900S was designed to celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary. The new preamplifier aims to consolidate the company’s accumulated expertise into a new flagship product. After approximately five years of development, the preamplifier is now ready for market.
Accuphase C-3900S: AAVA volume control
At the heart of the C-3900S is the company’s proprietary AAVA volume control, which has been further developed. Unlike conventional circuits, where the input signal is first attenuated through resistors and then amplified, AAVA operates without this level reduction. Accuphase claims this minimizes noise. Instead, the level control is achieved through a combination of VI converter circuits with varying gains, intended to maintain impedance and frequency response across the entire volume range.
The C-3900S is the first to utilize Dual Balanced AAVA technology. This technology utilizes two symmetrically designed Balanced AAVA units operating in parallel. According to the manufacturer, this concept results in improved electrical characteristics and a further 30 percent reduction in the already low noise level compared to previous models. Balance adjustment between the left and right channels is also achieved through this circuit.
Another key development feature is the newly designed volume level sensor. The sensor consists of a highly rigid, precision-machined aluminum block and accurately detects the position of the control. According to Accuphase, the robust rotary knob is designed for exceptionally smooth operation. When using the remote control, the control is driven by a motor, with a special gear design ensuring quiet operation.
Technically, the C-3900S utilizes a discrete input amplifier with current feedback and ANCC technology for noise and distortion reduction. A separate amplifier with a parallel push-pull output stage is integrated for headphone use. Signal switching is handled by logic-controlled relays, which Accuphase claims offer both sonic benefits and long-term reliability.
Accuphase C-3900S: dual-mono power supply
The power supply is consistently designed as a dual-mono system. Separate power supplies for the left and right channels, based on toroidal transformers, as well as a total of twelve filter capacitors, each with a capacitance of 10,000 µF, ensure stable power supply. Signal transmission takes place via printed circuit boards made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) with fluorocarbon resin, which features a low dielectric constant.
The preamplifier also has extensive connection options: seven line inputs, four balanced inputs and two line and two balanced outputs are available.
This is complemented by connections for a recording device, external preamp inputs, switchable overall gain, mono operation, a loudness function, and a switchable display. Visually, the C-3900S features a champagne-colored front panel, a solid wood cabinet, and high-quality cast iron insulating feet.
The suggested retail price is €32,100.
