The German brand Violectric is owned by Lake People Electronic, known for its studio audio equipment. So the Violectric HPA V550 headphone amplifier (it is also released in the HPA V550 PRO version ) received a lot of features from professional circuitry.
First of all, this is the increased supply voltage: it allowed the HPA V550 to work with high-impedance headphone models. The owner of the amplifier can choose one of seven levels of signal level to match the impedance of their headphones. Jumper switches are located on the back of the case.
Input connectors are also located here: two pairs of unbalanced RCA and a pair of balanced XLR. The amplifier received an input selector and an adjustable line output – also in balanced and unbalanced versions. All this will allow the HPA V550 to be used as a preamplifier.
There are three connectors on the front panel for connecting headphones: two outputs for a classic 6.3 mm jack and one balanced 4-pin XLR. The circuit provides headphone protection against constant voltage and overload.
A motorized potentiometer Alps RK 27 is responsible for volume control in the HPA V550. Another component is responsible for balance. The Violectric HPA V550 PRO version differs from the usual version in that here the volume control is implemented in a circuit of reed relays designed for 256 steps.
Both innovations at Violectric are called their best achievements in the field of analog balanced circuitry. Both received externally indistinguishable cases with bezels made of 8mm aluminum.
The included remote control can be used to remotely control the HPA V550. It will certainly come in handy when working as a pre-amplifier, and owners of long headphone cables will also find it useful.
In Germany, the Violectric HPA V550 will cost 2,400 euros, while the HPA V550 PRO will cost 3,000 euros.