This amplifier is housed in an Altoids tin with a Texas Instruments TLE2082 opamp (regarded as the best implementation of the 08x IC).


Each amplifier is built to order - it's no problem to change any component to your requirements - please contact me with your requirements or if you'd like to discuss your needs.

This amplifier uses 2x 9 V batteries and is recommended for larger, less efficient headphones which require a larger operating Voltage. Please get in touch if you'd like guidance. 


Warranty: 

All my amplifiers have a lifetime warranty. I will always repair or renew any defective amplifier. 


The same circuit (using 9 V instead of 18 V) was reviewed last year by The Pro Audio Web Blog where it received 5 stars - the review can be found here: http://theproaudiowebblog.com/askew-labs-cmoy-review.html



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)
  • 18 V battery powered for a noiseless power supply. Can use rechargeable batteries. (needs 2 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.



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 two 9 V batteries. You can use normal disposable or rechargeable ones