Cayin continues to expand its attractive Jazz range with the brand-new Jazz 90 KT88 tube amplifier. After the Jazz 80, appreciated for its warm musicality and vintage design, and the recent Jazz 100, a true class A flagship, the Chinese brand introduces an intermediate model designed to combine power, versatility and modernity. Equipped with four KT88 tubes and capable of delivering a rich, dynamic reproduction, the Jazz 90 retains the aesthetic elegance of its predecessors, while incorporating state-of-the-art connectivity, with high-resolution Bluetooth and an MM phono input.
A full range
With the Jazz series, Cayin has created a real identity within its catalog of tube amplifiers. Each model shares the same aesthetic language, marked by backlit analog VU meters, meticulous craftsmanship and the integration of modern functions such as Bluetooth HD. We already had the opportunity to test the Cayin Jazz 80 in KT88 and EL34 versions, which we praised for their balance and rich timbres. A true gateway to the world of Jazz, it embodies the Cayin philosophy with a particularly attractive price/performance ratio. At the top of the range, the Cayin Jazz 100, which we also reviewed, impresses with its 805A tubes, whose refined reproduction and expressive breadth made it a favorite during our listening sessions. Between these two extremes, the new Jazz 90 stands out as an intermediate alternative: more powerful and versatile than the Jazz 80, but more compact and accessible than the Jazz 100.
The power of KT88 tubes
The Cayin Jazz 90 is based on a carefully crafted tube architecture, with two 12AX7 inputs, two 6SN7 drivers and four push-pull KT88 power tubes. It also allows you to opt for EL34s to adapt the sound to your preferences: more warmth and softness with EL34s, more dynamism and impact with KT88s.
The power transformer, a toroidal model developed in-house by Cayin, ensures exemplary stability and generous current reserve, guaranteeing a firm, controlled reproduction. Like its predecessors, the Cayin Jazz 90 offers a choice of two amplification modes: Triode, which favors harmonic richness and timbre fluidity, and Ultralinear, which unleashes the full power of the amp to reach up to 2 x 50 watts and efficiently power numerous models of floorstanding speakers.
Bluetooth, the signature of the Jazz range
One of the major original features of the Jazz range is the systematic integration of high-resolution Bluetooth. This bold choice immediately sets these models apart from traditional tube amplifiers, which are generally confined to analog inputs only. With the Jazz 90, Cayin continues this modern orientation by integrating a Bluetooth 5.1 module based on the Qualcomm QCC5125 chip, which supports the main HD audio codecs, including LDAC, aptX HD and aptX Low Latency, in addition to AAC and SBC. As a result, wireless listening retains a reproduction quality that comes close to that of the best wired connections, without sacrificing user comfort. To ensure faithful, precise conversion of digital streams, Cayin has integrated an ESS ES9018K2M DAC, renowned for its musicality.
RCA inputs with phono preamplifier
Located at the rear, the Cayin Jazz 90 amplifier features two RCA line inputs for connecting a CD player, network player or DAB tuner, for example. For the first time, these are complemented by an MM phono input, ideal for enjoying a vinyl collection without the need for an external preamp. On the output side, the Jazz 90 features separate terminal blocks for 4 Ω and 8 Ω loads, ensuring optimum compatibility with a wide range of speakers. The amp also features a dual subwoofer output, for extended bass response. Finally, a front-mounted headphone jack (6.35mm) completes the package, opening the door to more intimate listening sessions while retaining the unique musicality of tubes.
With the Jazz 90, Cayin consolidates a range that has become a benchmark in the world of modern tube amplifiers. Now available to pre-order on Son-Vidéo.com at a price of €2,990, this newcomer is positioned between the accessible and attractive Jazz 80 (€1,990) and the powerful Cayin Jazz 100 (€3,990). It combines the power and dynamics of the KT88 with the comfort of full connectivity, adding the series’ signature high-resolution Bluetooth. Elegant, versatile and deeply musical, the Cayin Jazz 90 is designed for both tube enthusiasts and music lovers looking for an amp that brilliantly combines tradition and innovation.
