Power supply design has always been key to the overall performance of audio products and with the 40 PSU, we have delivered not only a product packaged within the sleek design of the 40 series aluminium chassis, but a new approach to providing clean and stable power for your compatible 40 series host product. Incorporating its own on-board micro-processor, the 40 PSU communicates directly with the host product to consistently provide the best configuration of virtually noise-free power from a full range of digitally controlled voltage output levels.

When connected to the 40 AMP, the 40 PSU provides the power amp section with a serious boost of clean power, further stiffening the main power supply rails to the amplifier, meaning that the amplified signal can more accurately track the input signal. You hear this accuracy in the music which becomes more transparent and more detailed. The Pre-Amp section is completely driven by the 40 PSU, again this means a stiffer supply – leading to greater accuracy.

This leaves the internal power supply to run the DAC section, and because it is now doing less work, the supply it can provide to the DAC is more robust. In our listening tests we observed a massive improvement on the 40 AMP. We got more weight, more authority, better detail, better attack, overall better control of rise and fall of notes, and more accurate timing.

When connected to the 40 CD, the 40 PSU powers the master clock, which helps to improve jitter. It also powers the CD motors, which is electrically speaking a very noisy circuit as the motors are constantly changing velocity. Taking this supply outside the box lowers the overall noise within the box, helping the player to perform even more accurately.

The 40 PSU also takes over powering the analogue side of the DAC, with the internal supply powering the digital side of the DAC. Again, this separation of power supplies helps to limit the transfer of noise. Sonically, we get improved timing, better control of base notes, more accurate edges and control of notes and enhanced imagery.

When connected to the 40 ST, the 40 PSU takes over powering the analogue side of the DAC and the BluOS network module. This provides those sections of the circuit with a cleaner more stable supply of power improving the audio performance of the streamer, bringing out new levels of detail in the music as well as offering greater control.

You will also find that it creates more space round the instruments and vocals providing greater depth and a holographic soundstage.