Portable hi-fi specialist iBasso launches its first portable tube headphone amplifier: the iBasso PB5. This all-analog model benefits from tube preamplification and a transistor power stage to combine the best of both worlds and offer an exceptional listening experience outside the home.
Tube preamplification
iBasso is a master in the design of portable tube electronics, notably with its iBasso AMP13 and iBasso AMP14 detachable modules designed to replace the original amplification of its HD DAPs. With the new iBasso PB5 portable headphone amplifier, the manufacturer takes a purely audiophile approach, with an all-analog design. Preamplification is provided by a pair of 6th generation Nutue 6P1 tubes mounted in a symmetrical configuration. They are mounted on a suspension system to eliminate vibrations and microphonic effects when used on the move.
Balanced and unbalanced output
With its hybrid design, the iBasso PB5 headphone amplifier combines tube preamplification with a transistor power stage for an ideal combination of warmth, naturalness and power. It can deliver up to 9 Vrms on its balanced 4.4mm jack output and 4.5 Vrms on its unbalanced 3.5mm mini-jack output. To achieve this feat, it uses Texas Instruments OPA827 operational amplifiers coupled to VCEsat transistors. Capacitors developed in-house by the brand maximize current capacity for a dynamic, balanced reproduction. As a result, the iBasso PB5 can comfortably power the majority of headphones and in-ear monitors. Association is made even easier with a gain control.
Eliminating interference
In order to reproduce music as accurately as possible, iBasso drastically eliminates interference and noise. This is particularly true of the power supply stage, which uses no fewer than six separate batteries. The tube preamplifier benefits from two batteries, while the power stage uses four models to maximize current capacity. This package gives the iBasso PB5 portable headphone amplifier up to 10h30 of autonomy.
The new iBasso PB5 tube headphone amplifier is now available from Son-Vidéo.com, priced at €1,490. With the latter, the brand offers an exceptional solution for enjoying the unique musicality of tubes with a portable device that fits in your pocket.
