Basic Tube Preamplifier / Headphone Tube Amplifier

The UV-1 (UltraViolet) preamplifier is based on a circuit that we have used for many years, but not marketed before. About 40 years ago, Ralph Karsten began developing his own circuit for use for friends on a budget but with high end audio aspirations. It was originally used as a modification to the venerable Dynaco PAS-3. Over a period of decades, the circuit has seen a lot of refinement. It is a simple circuit (and obviously a complete departure from our other products), based on a very capable and refined 6SN7-based line section with a simple phono section based on 12AT7s. We have seen this preamp best preamps costing up to five times more; when we say 'refined', we mean it! 

We never really considered marketing the preamp as it is so different from the rest of our product line. But friends and associates convinced us that we had something special, especially for its price so here it is. 

The preamp is available in four forms: a basic line stage, a headphone power amp that also works as a line stage, a full function preamp with high output MM capability, or with the addition of a set of Jensen stepup transformers works with any low output moving coil cartridge as well. 

The headphone version of the UV-1 uses the full tube complement of the UV-1. It has four inputs and can be used as a line stage as well. This version does not have a phono section.

Features

- Simple zero feedback line section
- Cardas RCA connectors used thoughout- Standard dual output connections, optionally reconfigurable

- Shunt-style balance control
- Heavy-duty seamless aluminum chassis
- Precision components used throughout- Low-noise "star" grounding topology- Three-year general coverage warranty - One year warranty on tubes