Stereo Preamplifier Cambridge Audio Azur 851E black

Overview

Distortion so low it can barely be measured. This truly analog preamplifier produces a signal of incredible clarity. The 851E produces so little harmonic distortion and adds so little noise to incoming signals that it can barely be measured. In a preamplifier, that is a great quality!

Significantly improved over its predecessors, the key to the 851E is its semiconductor volume control that provides precise control, maintains faithful channel balance at low levels, and delivers truly linear performance. All without introducing distortion into the precious analog signal source.

The 851E further enhances source connections with eight inputs including three synchronized XLR inputs providing greater sound fidelity and a level equivalent to the best modern high-end sources.

The 851E is designed from the ground up as a truly high-end component, with Terrapin impedance buffer modules that separate the impedance of the amplifier from that of the signal. This results in a consistent and coherent sound across different sources, flexible and manageable trigger outputs and a control bus for good integration with power amplifiers; a 100% metal housing designed to isolate the electronics and protect against external interference. This is how Cambridge Audio has produced its best analog preamplifier, an ideal companion to the 851W power amplifier.

Specifications

Total harmonic distortion
- < 0.00045% at 1 kHz
- < 0.00057% at 20 kHz
Signal-to-noise ratio (unweighted)
- < 110dBr
- < 90dBu
Output impedance 100 Ω (unbalanced or balanced)
Frequency response: 10 Hz - 100 kHz ± 0.1 dB
Crosstalk at 1 kHz: > 110 dB
Maximum output
- 8V rms unbalanced
- 8V + 8V rms balanced
Bass & Treble controls
- Max bass boost ± 10 dB at 10 Hz
- Max treble boost ± 7.5 dB at 20 kHz