Hifiman GA-10
Specifications and features
Hifiman Goldenwave GA-10 Tube Headphone Amplifier
The Hifiman Goldenwave GA-10 is an amplifier featuring a SEPP (single-ended push-pull) architecture, distinguished by the integration of eight vacuum tubes, a linear transformer, and direct tube output. This unique design delivers clear and detailed sound reproduction while significantly enhancing bass frequency response.
At the heart of this amplifier are four ECC83/12AX7 tubes and four EL84 tubes, renowned components typically found in expensive high-end amplifiers. The EL84 tubes, in particular, are used in the best professional guitar amplifiers, bringing a natural and delicate analog warmth to the GA-10’s sound signature.
Robust Power Supply for Optimal Performance
The GA-10’s power supply is based on a specially designed 120W shielded transformer. This component greatly contributes to the amplifier’s robust sound signature, offering powerful dynamics and solid bass extension. The power circuit also includes an independent low-noise voltage amplifier, voltage regulators for the left and right channels, and a low-noise negative voltage regulator circuit. This sophisticated configuration ensures superior sound quality with wide dynamics and solid bass extension.
Versatility and Compatibility
The Goldenwave GA-10 stands out for its impressive versatility. With an output power of 3 W per channel at 300 ohms, it is perfectly suited for most high-impedance headphones available on the market. However, its design also allows it to efficiently drive high-efficiency, low-impedance headphones, including models from Hifiman’s HE1000 series, such as the recent HE1000 Unveiled.
Comprehensive Connectivity for Easy Integration
The GA-10 offers comprehensive connectivity to meet all audiophile needs. It features balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, allowing easy connection to a variety of audio sources. For output, the amplifier provides a balanced 4-pin XLR output, a 4.4 mm balanced output, and a 6.35 mm unbalanced output. This versatility in connectivity ensures optimal compatibility with a wide range of headphones and audio setups.
Audio Performance
The technical specifications of the GA-10 attest to its superior audio performance. Its frequency response ranges from 20 Hz to 24 kHz, with a variation of only ± 0.5 dB at 1 kHz, ensuring faithful reproduction across the entire audible spectrum. The total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) is kept at a low 0.1% at 1 kHz and 1V, ensuring remarkable sound clarity.
Technical Specifications
Tube Configuration
- Preamplification stage: 4 × ECC83
- Amplification stage: 4 × EL84
Audio Performance
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 24 kHz, ± 0.5 dB at 1 kHz
- Total harmonic distortion: 0.001% at 1 kHz / 300 Ω
Output Power
- 3,000 mW at 300 Ω at 1 kHz
- 600 mW at 32 Ω at 1 kHz
Connectivity
Inputs
- Balanced XLR
- Unbalanced RCA
Headphone Outputs
- 4-pin XLR
- 6.35 mm jack
- 4.4 mm Pentaconn
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 330 × 110 × 380 mm
- Power consumption: 70 W
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Goldenwave GA-10 compatible with all types of headphones?
The GA-10 is designed to work with a wide range of headphones. It is particularly suited for high-impedance headphones thanks to its output power of 3 W per channel at 300 ohms. However, it can also efficiently drive low-impedance, high-efficiency headphones.
What is the difference between a tube amplifier like the GA-10 and a transistor amplifier?
Tube amplifiers like the GA-10 are renowned for their warm and musical sound, with harmonic distortion often described as pleasing to the ear. Transistor amplifiers, on the other hand, generally offer a more linear response and lower distortion. The choice between the two often depends on personal preferences regarding sound signature.
Can the GA-10 be used as a preamplifier in a hi-fi system?
Although primarily designed as a headphone amplifier, the GA-10 could potentially be used as a preamplifier due to its varied inputs. However, it is recommended to check the detailed specifications or contact Hifiman to confirm this specific use.
How to maintain the GA-10 tubes to ensure longevity?
To maintain optimal performance of the GA-10, it is advisable to let the amplifier cool down completely after each use. Avoid moving it when it’s hot and handle it with care. Tubes generally have a lifespan of several thousand hours, but periodic replacement may be necessary to maintain optimal sound quality.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- GTIN / EAN: 6925624203009
