After the recent Tangent PowerAmpster II and Tangent PreAmp II, the Danish manufacturer continues to expand its range of ultra-compact hi-fi electronics with the new Tangent Ampster TV II amp and Tangent DAC II audio DAC. Affordable, discreet and modern, these two new devices are perfect for enjoying music, TV programs and all digital sources.
Danish minimalism
A leading specialist in competitively priced hi-fi and home theater speakers (Tangent Spectrum X5, Tangent Spectrum X6 and Tangent Spectrum X6 HC Atmos 5.1.2), the Danish manufacturer is also known for its range of ultra-compact hi-fi electronics. Inaugurated with the Tangent Ampster BT, now upgraded to the MKII version (Tangent Ampster BT II), this range is made up of devices with a minimalist format that can be easily hidden away in the smallest corner of a cabinet, shelf or desk. The Tangent CD II CD player, Tangent Tuner II FM/DAB/DAB+ tuner and, more recently, the Tangent PreAmp II preamp and Tangent PowerAmpster II power amp, all feature the same compact design. Given the success of these electronics, the manufacturer is expanding its range with the new Tangent Ampster TV II amp and the Tangent DAC II USB DAC.
Tangent Ampster TV II: HDMI ARC
The new Tangent Ampster TV II takes the key elements of the popular Tangent Ampster BT II and adds an HDMI ARC input to retrieve the sound of the program being viewed on the TV. The Bluetooth module now supports the aptX HD codec to maximize transmission speed and ensure high-quality sound.
Apart from these changes, the Tangent Ampster TV II retains all the tried and tested features of the Tangent Ampster BT II. This includes digital amplification of 2 x 50 watts into 4 ohms and 2 x 25 watts into 8 ohms. Like its predecessor, the Tangent Ampster TV II can deliver all this power instantly to maximize dynamics. This is a real advantage when it comes to responding effectively to the demands of music and, now, movie soundtracks.
The new Tangent Ampster TV II is now available for pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com, priced at €199. Enough to make it a future bestseller, given that its immediate rival, the NAD D3045, retails at €645. The first units are scheduled to arrive in late August 2023.
Tangent DAC II: 24-bit/192kHz DAC
Combining an audio DAC, headphone amp and hi-fi preamp, the new Tangent DAC II offers an ultra-comprehensive solution in a format as compact as the other devices in the range. Its ESS Sabre ES9023 DAC is joined by two optical, one coaxial and one USB-B inputs to decode music played back from a computer, CD player or other digital source. It supports many formats up to a resolution of 24-bit/19 kHz, as well as DSD files (up to DSD512). Finally, the aptX HD Bluetooth module facilitates wireless listening.
Regarding outputs, the Tangent DAC II features a balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connector. The level of the latter is variable, allowing the Tangent DAC II to be used as a preamplifier by associating it directly with a power amp, ideally the Tangent PowerAmpster II. A coaxial output allows a second DAC to be inserted seamlessly. Finally, the dual headphone jack (3.5mm mini-jack and 6.35mm jack) is ideal for enjoying your music without disturbing those around you.
The new Tangent DAC II is now available for pre-order at €299. First deliveries are scheduled from mid-July 2023.
