AUDIO DEVICE
Hybrid Tube-Input / Solid-State-Output Headphone Amp
Specifications
| Category | Headphone Amp |
|---|---|
| Brand | Valve Audio |
| Form factor | Desktop |
| Power source | Linear Ps |
| DAC chip | n/a |
| Amp topology | Hybrid: 12AU7 tube driver + MOSFET output |
| Output power @ 32Ω | 2800 mW |
| Output power @ 300Ω | 900 mW |
| Output impedance | 0.8 Ω |
| SNR | 122 dB |
| THD | 0.03 % |
| MQA support | no |
| Price (USD) | $1399 |
| Release year | 2024 |
Overview
Hybrid headphone amplifier: a 12AU7 tube driver stage feeds a discrete MOSFET solid-state output stage. Captures the harmonic-richness of tubes in the small-signal stage where it audibly matters, with solid-state output current capability and low output impedance.
Output impedance is 0.8 Ω — low enough for the reference open-back planar (damping factor of 40) without sacrificing the tube-stage warmth. Output power is 2,800 mW into 32 Ω and 900 mW into 300 Ω.
The best of both worlds for users who like tube tonality but don’t want to limit themselves to high-impedance dynamics. 4.4 mm Pentaconn balanced output.
Output jacks
Recommended pairings
Reference Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphone — Studio Flagship
32Ω · planar-magnetic
Classic 300Ω Open-Back Dynamic Reference Headphone
300Ω · dynamic
Mid-Tier 80Ω Open-Back Dynamic Headphone
80Ω · dynamic
Frequently asked questions
What headphones pair well with Hybrid Tube-Input / Solid-State-Output Headphone Amp?
Hybrid Tube-Input / Solid-State-Output Headphone Amp delivers approximately 2800 mW into 32Ω and 900 mW into 300Ω with an output impedance of 0.8 Ω. That makes it well-matched to demanding planar headphones and high-sensitivity IEMs alike.