Audiophile Preamplifiers
GRAD 1 Audiophile Preamp
The Preamp during construction
The GRAD 1 preamplifier is the only known dedicated single ended transistor, transconductance, preamplifier available today.
With zero overall feedback, it delivers completely natural sound.
The preamplifier is unique in that it uses deceptively simple single ended technology, converting voltage into irresistible amplifier driving current.
With zero feedback topology in this amplifier design, you get none of the forward, grainy sound normally associated with transistor audio preamplifiers. The sound is allowed to soar without constraint.
Bass becomes detailed without bloom and the treble performance is energetic yet exquisitely natural. This preamplifier design takes on some highly regarded tube preamplifiers and gives them a run for their money.
This world class preamp is individually crafted from components of the highest quality. Many military grade components are used to provide consistent performance over many years service.
The GRAD 1 stereo preamplifier uses a low inductance Litz PCB track layout for signal paths, a technique unique to Avondale Audio. The tracks on the amplifier board carrying signal are split into three parallel thinner tracks thereby lowering the undesirable inductance found in thick PCB track.
Even the small number of links on the preamplifier are oxygen free, silicone insulated cables specially chosen for the ultimate in audio neutrality. It is one of the few preamplifiers in the world which neither adds nor subtracts. Even expensive passive preamps sound coloured by comparison.
Hermetically sealed reed relays with precious metal contacts take care of the signal switching at the source, so minimising crosstalk between inputs and channels. This means a cleaner, clearer signal without undue harmonic distortion and guarantees reliable operation over many years. It will stay just as fresh sounding as the day it was made.
The preamplifier has three line level inputs capable of accepting a signal of up to 15V RMS without overload; a total of 8 series regulators plus 2 shunt regulators and a maximum gain of +10dB. Maximum distortion (mainly 2nd harmonic) is 0.04%.
It drives virtually any length of interconnect cable.
This audiophile preamp has been developed for enthusiasts, by experts who are hifi enthusiasts too.
The original design aim was to create a preamplifier with none of the acoustic signature known to be present in solid state designs and combine the fluidity of a top class valve preamp with the incisive rhythmic qualities of bipolar transistor preamps.
You get the best of both worlds with the GRAD1 preamp. Fatigue free, yet vibrant and exciting, this high end preamplifier fulfills the design brief with miles to spare.
Almost three decades designing state of the art power supplies for hifi audio systems has come together in the GRAD 1 package, resulting in a preamplifier without the slightest sonic signature. The GRAD 1 has been auditioned with many systems both valve and solid state, always with exceptional results.
It never fails to extract the very best from any musical source and has proved time and time again. It is able to fit seamlessly into any high end audio system into which it is introduced.
Sonically, there is nothing under £10K to touch the GRAD1 audiophile preamplifier. You are invited to prove this for yourself. The rather special audio power supplies, the heart of this system, are unique to Avondale Audio and they ensure the fastest leading edge delivery without any overshoot or grain.
Try against any regarded preamplifier, like the Naim Audio NAC52 with a SuperCap power supply. Be prepared for a surprise (pleasant or otherwise depending on whether or not you've spent heaps on some High End Kit).
" The great quality of the GRAD1 preamp is that it plays the bits in between the bits" DF - Dudley West Midlands
" I really like the way it gives you the whole picture, the GRAD1 preamp is better than the NAC82 in every respect and is certainly a true audio bargain..." SC Leicester
"The GRAD1 preamplifier from Avondale Audio is probably the best value for money high end component available today"
"The GRAD1 preamp arrived today in excellent condition. Plugged into system powered by TPX2. It's so elegant… and little… and ... Wonderful! What a clear, unforced, balanced sound. It's remarkable in that it is so unremarkable…. It sounds so 'right' that it's just no big deal. Like, of course, any good system should sound like that. But that's so rare." B. USA
"The GRAD1 sounds fantastic in my not-yet-fully-sorted room; entire new instruments are appearing from the (previous) behind-the-scenes mush, rhythms seem to have been redefined, the recording venues audibly exist - slightly unnervingly - within my listening room. And it's almost impossible to listen to the amp rather than the music it's so transparent. I'm quite chuffed ....." Nom - Posted on Pink Fish Media.
"I've previously used only passive preamps but I was shocked by the sheer transparency and musicality of the GRAD1 ...." CK Athens - Greece
Power Supply options
The GRAD1 preamplifier can be supplied with or without a TPX1 or TPX2 (but not the MSX) power supply, but please check with us first before ordering to ensure that you have a suitable power supply to use with our GRAD1.