Put your Hands on the Power, Making the Sound of CA-801 Better
CA-901 is a high-quality power supply that is designed specifically for CA-801 Headphone amplifier to use. The power supplied by CA-901 is superior to a regular switching power adaptor or a semi-conductor adaptor based on linear power regulator.
CA-901 is a fantastic power supplier that may promote and enhance headroom of a vacuum tube headphone amplifier. It can also reduce noise, which generate a full and powerful sound. The music played by such an amplifier and power system will reveal the delicacy and fascination of music with just only a little noise detected—reaching an ultra-low noise state. The sound produced will no doubt touch your heart and enhance your feelings to enjoy the true gratefulness of music.
On top of everything else, the property of soft start of the vacuum tube can ease the impulsive sound when turning on the power.
5AR4 master electronic valve provides an excellent dynamic range (Headroom)
Ultra-Low Noise – 1/10 of a regular adaptor
Graph of AP Test Result (Let the picture speak for itself! Note the word “AP” in the top right-hand corner)
The blue line represents the original switching adaptor, while the red line represents for CA-901. It clearly shows that the noise level is only hundredths of a uV(about 60nV) when the frequency is above 1 Hz, in which human ears are most sensitive to. Amazingly, the noise level produced by CA-901 is only tenths of the original switching adaptor produces.
Sovtek 5AR4 / GZ34
5AR4 is absolutely one of the most mysterious tubes—a tiny tube that has a capacity to tolerate more than 1500V instant high voltage and 550VAC input, and generates a high voltage more than 600V. 5AR4’s performance overwhelms the bigger tube—5U4, and the sound quality generated by this type of tube can be rated as being the most exquisite and harmonious.
The price of NOS 5AR4 has been manipulated to as high as a rising skyrocket in the second-hand market, even if an old and nearly dead tube can be tagged with a high price. It’s all because too many audiophiles are dying to hear the melody sang by the Siren. Unfortunately, 5AR4 is very often sold in a blink of an eye. Some time ago, Shuguang Electron Group Co., Ltd. from China has also launched 5AR4; the sound is truly impressive and breathtaking. Although its proof voltage and current may not achieve the highest expectation, this small deficiency does not affect its over-all sales—rather the supply hardly meets the demand.
Sovtek 5AR4 can substitute for GZ34 (The EU Standard), which is said to be the savoir to 5AR4 carvers.
Sovtek adheres to a very high standard in manufacturing—as high as military standards, meanwhile merges a modern HI-END tube technology in developing this outstanding valve. This 5AR4 has used a thickened and gear-like mica sheet, at the same time adapted the single-plate lamination technique, replacing the traditional approach to connect two plates by soldering. This design can increase the efficacy of the tube, reduce the chance of leaking from the electronic pinhole, and cut the driving status to zero. Additionally, the manufacturer improves the vacuum degree during manufacturing as well as enlarges the surface of electrons emission. The modified design allows larger maximum current and proof voltage in comparison to the original. Using lab-grade glasses also helps the entire tube to cool down a lot more quickly.
The sound performance is highly recommended! The sweetness and details of sound have been fully displayed. What’s even better is Sovtek 5AR4 possesses the driving power and flexibility that the old 5AR4 may not have. Definitely thumbs up for this tube! Can you believe the price is only less than half of an old, used 5AR4 tube?
WIMA Capacitor
The company has been founded since 1948—with years and rich experiences in making capacitors. The metallic film capacitor manufactured by WIMA is being recognized worldwide as the best quality in class, not to mention the company has well-trained staff and well-developed management to assure quality control. In combination of all factors, “high quality” and “high reliability” are tightly and constantly associated with the products. In other words, it’s drawing an equal sign to the concept of “Made in Germany”.
WIMA capacitor, in general, should be the most common piece that is used in amplifiers. The sound produced is very nice and steady. When a WIMA capacitor is used and placed next to of the power bypass and coupling, the sound can be sweeter and stronger, and listeners will not get bored of it. The beauty of this kind of sound is not overwhelming and overacting but is rather penetrating and smooth. Now I realize why there are so many Hi-End producers are loyal fans of WIMA.
Nichicon audio frequency capacitor
Nichicon audio frequency capacitors have several series: Standard series, Bi-polarized series,105 degree series, Miniature series, Muse series, and KG series. The Muse series is a superior series among all. The new product line-ups are categorized as MUSE KZ(supreme series) , MUSE Fine Gold (premium series; golden melody) , KW(high grade series) , and FW (standard series).
Nichicon MUSE fine gold(FG) is among the high standards in MUSE series and is specifically used as an audio frequency coupling capacitor, exhibiting a black wrapping with golden prints. This capacitor is able to provide clear and penetrating sounds while create layers with different feelings. It covers from compacting low-frequency to penetrating high-frequency, but a fly in the ointment is that the medium frequency is little bit slender. The overall unit truly demonstrates a fantastic performance, creating a refreshing, powerful, and modern impression. This coupling capacitor is no doubt a good fit for AV system, DVD and MD.