Atoll Evolution: A Completely Redesigned Range

The French manufacturer Atoll Electronique is updating part of its hi-fi electronics range. The Signature series, which established the brand’s reputation, is being replaced by a new generation called Evolution. This update includes integrated amplifiers, power amplifiers, stereo preamplifiers, as well as CD players and transports. While maintaining Atoll’s distinctive sound signature and design, the Evolution range incorporates notable technical improvements aimed at refining and optimizing audio performance.

Subtle but Significant Enhancements

The new Signature Evolution range doesn’t radically change Atoll’s winning formula. Instead, it refines and perfects it. Engineers have worked on every component to optimize performance, reduce distortion, and enhance overall sound quality.

Visually, the Evolution range devices remain true to Atoll’s elegant and minimalist design that has been a hallmark of the brand. The brushed aluminum chassis is retained, with the “Evolution” branding being the only visual distinction from their predecessors. The real innovations lie inside, with optimization work on every component to improve overall performance.

What Are the Key Improvements?

Technical Optimizations

• A complete overhaul of the power supply, featuring multiple specialized transformers
• Increased filtering capacity
• A more advanced dual-mono architecture
• Redesigned circuit routing to improve the signal-to-noise ratio and reduce crosstalk
• New tellurium copper binding posts, derived from those used in the IN300 model
• High-quality shielded MKP coupling capacitors for better performance

Sound Enhancements

• Improved stereo separation: The use of a dual volume attenuator (one per channel) enhances channel separation, improving stereo imaging.
• Enhanced signal-to-noise ratio: Thanks to Mundorf capacitors and optimized circuit routing.
• Increased musicality: The modifications result in an overall improvement in sound quality.

Highlights of the Evolution Series

A Smooth Evolution for Integrated Amplifiers

The IN200 and IN400 integrated amplifiers are the first to benefit from this update. The IN200 Evolution replaces the IN200 Signature while maintaining a power output of 2x120W at 8 ohms. The main updates are in the power supply, with the addition of high-precision current sources using transistors and LEDs. This change aims to improve idle current stability and make the amplifier less sensitive to power grid fluctuations.

The audio stage of the IN200 Evolution also benefits from shielded Mundorf MPK capacitors, already used in the high-end IN300. These components enhance the signal-to-noise ratio and overall musicality. Volume control is now managed by a channel-specific attenuator, as seen in the IN300, for better stereo separation.

The Atoll IN300 Evolution also brings its share of improvements in this new version, offering increased power and an optimized power supply with three toroidal transformers. Its dual-mono architecture ensures enhanced stereo separation, while connectivity is upgraded with improved digital inputs and integrated Bluetooth.

The IN400 Evolution: The Brand’s New Flagship

The high-end IN400 Evolution succeeds the IN400 Signature with more significant upgrades. Its amplification stage has been completely redesigned to deliver a more stable signal. The bias system makes it immune to power grid fluctuations, ensuring better signal linearity.

This Class A amplifier now features dual balanced XLR outputs in addition to traditional RCA outputs. Its modularity is enhanced with the option to add a digital board.

A New AM200 Evolution Power Amplifier

The AM200 Evolution replaces the AM200 Signature as a stereo power amplifier. It delivers 2x120W at 8 ohms (or 2x200W at 4 ohms) and can operate in bridged mono mode to triple its power output.

On the technical side, Atoll has gone all out: optimized current sources with transistors and LEDs ensure perfect stability, while the printed circuit board features a nickel/gold finish for better conductivity. Tellurium copper speaker terminals, borrowed from the high-end IN300 models, complete the setup.

Sound improvements include more precise reproduction, balanced sound, and enhanced dynamics. The AM200 Evolution offers a natural tone, better soundstage openness, and articulate performance across the entire spectrum, from bass to treble.

This model is versatile, suitable for stereo, bi-amplification, or high-power configurations, and stands out with its sleek brushed aluminum design and elegant finishes. It’s an amplifier that combines technical performance with refined aesthetics.

CD Players Also Get an Upgrade

Atoll is updating its CD player range to the Evolution version. The models affected include the CD50, CD80, CD100, CD200, as well as the CD transports DR100 and DR200. At the heart of these improvements is a new TEAC reading mechanism that promises better sound quality. The power supplies have been upgraded, with up to 10 regulated power supplies on some models, for increased sound stability.

In terms of digital-to-analog conversion, new converters have been integrated, varying by model. As a bonus, all players now feature a 12V trigger output and proudly display “EVOLUTION” on their front panels. To top it off, power consumption has been reduced to just 0.5W in standby mode.

The next device to be released is the CD400 EVO, expected to be available in early January.

Introducing the PR300 Evolution Preamplifier

Atoll’s new PR300 Evolution preamplifier represents a step forward from the PR300 Signature. It offers significant improvements in both design and sound performance.

It features a multi-transformer power supply that enhances power source separation and reduces interference, thereby improving sound quality. Its internal structure has been optimized to provide better stereo separation and a wider soundstage, thanks to independent symmetrical stages and a stepped-resistor attenuator.

The added XLR inputs and outputs allow for easier integration into high-end systems while enhancing signal quality. In terms of performance, it features an extended bandwidth, excellent signal-to-noise ratio, and low distortion, ensuring precise and dynamic sound reproduction. The PR300 Evolution also remains modular, with expansion options such as a DAC card or a phono card.

Atoll’s Commitment to French Manufacturing

What sets Atoll apart in the global market is its unwavering commitment to local manufacturing. All products are designed and assembled in Brécey, Normandy, using carefully selected materials for their audiophile quality. This artisanal approach not only ensures exceptional durability but also complete control over the production process, enabling Atoll to innovate quickly while maintaining high standards.

With this new Evolution range, Atoll Electronique showcases its ability to evolve its products while staying true to its design philosophy. Audiophiles can expect even better audio performance while preserving the signature sound that has built the reputation of the French brand.