TEAC Launches Reference 500 Series Pure Analog Headphone Amplifier/Preamp

October 31 2024, 00:35
TEAC announced the HA-507, a new component in its compact Reference 500 Series, which now adds a low distortion, pure analog headphone amplifier/preamplifier. Incorporating the brand's premium audio technologies, and equipped with an optimized power supply circuit, the HA-507 has exceptional headphone driving power and an extremely wide frequency response that cannot be imagined from its compact appearance. 
 

When connected to the TRDD 5 discrete DAC, model UD-507, TEAC created a special headphone playback system with separate digital and analog sections. And the HA-507 can also be used as a pure analog preamplifier when paired with a Reference 500 Series power amplifier. This elegant combo creates a compact yet full-featured separate amplifier system that further enhances the quality of any loudspeaker system.

As a headphone amplifier, the new TEAC HA-507 offers a fully balanced/dual mono configuration with exceptional headphone drive capability of 6.7W + 6.7W (32Ω) at balanced output, enhanced with a preamp pass-through function for use as a separate power amplifier for headphones. On the front of the HA-507 we find two balanced outputs, one XLR 4-pin and one 4.4mm Pentaconn, plus two unbalanced 1/4" and 3.5mm jacks. The front panel includes input selector, and switches for headphone output and gain select (high/mid/low).

As a preamplifier, the TEAC HA-507 offers a fully balanced/dual mono configuration, using "TEAC-QVCS Advanced" circuits with a new super high precision, ladder resistor network. The listening experience is supported with a smooth and precise volume control (0.25dB increments), and a lossless, long life FET input switching system without mechanical contacts. The built-in TEAC-HCLD 2 (High Current Line Driver 2) circuit stage provides fast and powerful external amplifier drive capability from its two XLR and RCA stereo inputs to one balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) output.
 

As TEAC details, two independent power supplies (one for audio circuits and one for control circuits) are complemented by large toroidal power transformers with separate left and right windings exclusive for audio circuits, supporting a 18,800μF per channel dual-mono configuration for dynamic, responsive sound. The compact design uses only high-quality power components, including high-speed Schottky barrier diodes, all contained in a rugged A4-size aluminum chassis suitable for both audio rack and desktop applications. The chassis features a semi-floating 2.8mm thick aluminum top plate, and stressless metal feet with three-point support.

The whole system is fanless, thanks to a highly efficient heat dissipation design. Other features of notice include a preamp pass-through for AV surround systems, trigger in/through terminals, and high grade aluminum knobs with a patent-pending mechanism to prevent off-axis shaft movement. The TEAC HA-507 ships with the RC-1340 dedicated remote control (AAA x2) with motorized volume control, and is available in silver and black finish.
 
The TEAC HA-507 MSRP is $1999 (USA) and €1899 (EU), and will be available for purchase starting January 2025.
TEAC USA: www.teacusa.com
TEAC International: www.teac.jp/in
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