AskewLabs now builds a USB DAC! Please see my shop for the listing.
This amplifier is housed in an Altoids tin with a Texas Instruments TLE2082 opamp (regarded as the best implementation of the 08x IC).
The batteries will last around 15-45 hours depending on listening level and battery type/quality. I suggest you use rechargeable batteries - they will last ~15-20 hours between charges. Quality disposable batteries will last far longer.
The amplifier chip can be changed at cost - please contact me to discuss what kind of thing you are looking for. Each amplifier is built to order - it's no problem to change any component to your requirements.
I can take on custom/high spec. amplifier and cable builds at present - please contact me! All budgets and headphones/systems can be built for - let me know how I can help you.
A few notable points:
- Electrolytic capacitors made for audio (Panasonic AM series)
- Metal film resistors for minimal impact on audio
- All German made WIMA film capacitors for decoupling and audio path.
- TLE2028 amplifier IC - in a socket for opamp rolling
- TLE2426 rail splitter for a ultra stable, clean ground reference
- Ground plane implementation (2 layer board)
- 9 V battery powered for a noiseless power supply. Can use rechargeable batteries.
This is a very capable amplifier that will effortlessly open up your headphones. Using this amplifier you will hear the difference that your music and your headphones deserve. I pride myself on the quality of my product and service.
Designed, built and shipped in the UK there is very little waiting for it to arrive and no possible customs charges in the UK.
The Short:
- Designed and made in the UK by a BEng. electronic engineer
- Improves audio quality and clarity
- Increased volume
- Components intelligently chosen for high quality audio reproduction, not low unit price
- Lifetime warranty
- Insured Royal Mail postage
The Long:
Every component in this circuit has been carefully chosen for quality of sound and performance. The price may be higher than the Chinese products available but you certainly get what you pay for. This has been designed and built by hand in the UK. Even the circuit boards are manufactured in the UK to very high standards. How many HiFi products out there can say that?
I'm quite certain that this amplifier will last you for as many years as you need it to and more.
There are no toggle switches, meaning you can use this while it's in your pocket/bag/backpack and not accidentally switch it on or off. The power switch is integrated into the volume control. As you turn the volume clockwise it 'clicks' on and the volume increases as you turn. I have not included an LED as this can dramatically reduce battery life. A battery at the end of its life degrades the audio quality of any amplifier.
Power supply and rail splitter:
The power supply element of this amplifier has had a lot of effort put into its design. Decoupling capacitors are placed as close to the amplifier IC as possible in ascending order of capacitance. A solid ground plane has been used to separate the power supply and the signal elements of the circuit.
Panasonic AM caps:
Panasonic AM capacitors are a new one on me - I had to try them out as they were billed by Panasonic to be used in high performance audio applications. I'm very impressed by their performance - this is certainly a tangible increase in audio clarity over my previous choices in my ear's opinion (and nicer than more expensive components I have tested too! If you build your own hardware, give these a listen).
Features:
ALPS RK097 dual potentiometer with integrated power switch (made in Japan)
TLE2426 power rail splitter IC
4x Panasonic AM - 330 uF, 10 V electrolytic capacitors
1x Panasonic AM - 330 uF, 35 V electrolytic capacitors
2x WIMA 0.1 uF decoupling capacitors - placed as close to the IC as possible
2x WIMA 0.1 uF decoupling capacitors - in parallel with the electrolytic capacitors
High quality professionally made PCB, made in the UK
Quality standard 3.5mm stereo jacks for input and output
This amplifier uses a 9 V battery. You can use a normal disposable or rechargeable one
Full paper instructions and my contact details are included.
Please look at my feedback for more feedback from my customers.
Specifications:
Tested with a 8.4 V rechargeable NiMH battery, TLE2082 IC
108 mW total @ 1 kHz sine wave into 8 Ohms (Dynatron SP3)
124 mW total @ 1 kHz sine wave into 16 Ohm (Vibes IEM)
140 mW total @ 1 kHz sine wave into 32 Ohm (Grado SR225)
206 mW total @ 1 kHz sine wave into 140 Ohm (B+O U70 orthodynamic drivers)
Warranty:
All my amplifiers have a lifetime warranty. I will always repair or renew any defective amplifier.
Postage and Service:
I will answer any questions you have, just use the 'Ask seller a question'.
I ship worldwide, local pickup is welcome.
Packaging material is often recycled to keep costs down and do my bit for recycling. Don't worry - it's all good stuff! I wouldn't post something out that I wouldn't be happy with receiving myself.
If you have overpaid for postage when buying multiple amplifiers I will refund the difference.
I use Royal mail first class signed for when posting in the UK - tracking and insurance included. I always help my customers with any problems they may encounter - I want you to get exactly what I have described and be 100% happy with it.