Hifiman Jade II Amplifier

The HiFiMAN Jade II amplifier is specifically designed for electrostatic headphones. A product of the Chinese brand’s expertise in high-fidelity audio, this device delivers an optimal listening experience, perfectly complementing the Hifiman Jade II headphones.

Cutting-edge technology at the heart of the device

Beneath its sleek exterior, the Jade II houses advanced audio technology. Its circuitry employs a differential cascode configuration, combining transistors and MOSFETs to deliver pure and precise sound. An 80W transformer powers the system, providing an output of approximately 1.2W at 1kHz.

While this power output is moderate compared to some competing models, it is perfectly suited for electrostatic headphones. It ensures dynamic and detailed sound without the risk of overload. The amplifier also features a preamplifier utilizing a dual Texas Instruments OPA2107AO operational amplifier, renowned for its precision.

Versatile connectivity to suit all systems

The Jade II offers comprehensive connectivity, making it easy to integrate into various audio setups. At the rear, it includes unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR inputs, allowing connection to a wide range of audio sources. A front-panel input selector lets users easily switch between these options.

For outputs, the amplifier is equipped with two electrostatic headphone jacks in the Stax 5-pin format. This broad compatibility allows the Jade II to be used not only with the HiFiMAN Jade II headphones but also with most electrostatic headphones on the market that use this standard.

A refined sound experience

Jade II users agree that it delivers a balanced and refined sound signature. The midrange reproduction is particularly praised for its remarkable smoothness and purity. The highs are described as fluid and detailed, avoiding the overly bright character sometimes associated with electrostatic systems.

The amplifier excels in reproducing nuances and micro-details, enabling listeners to rediscover their favorite tracks in a new light. The soundstage is described as wide, offering excellent instrument separation, though some users note slightly less depth compared to other high-end models.

The perfect companion for the Jade II headphones

While the Jade II amplifier is compatible with various electrostatic headphones, it was designed in tandem with the HiFiMAN Jade II headphones. This pairing ensures the best system performance, with perfect synergy between the amplifier and the transducer.

The Jade II headphones stand out with their ultra-thin diaphragm, less than 0.001 mm thick, coated with nanoparticles. This technology provides an extremely wide frequency response, from 7 Hz to 90 kHz, which the amplifier fully exploits.

An essential component in a high-end hi-fi system

To get the most out of the Jade II, it is recommended to pair it with a high-quality audio source. A premium digital-to-analog converter (DAC) will allow the amplifier’s resolution and dynamics to be fully utilized.

It is also important to note that the Jade II requires an external DAC to function, as it does not include built-in digital-to-analog conversion. This approach allows HiFiMAN to focus on pure amplification, leaving the choice of DAC to the user based on their sound preferences and budget.

Technical Specifications

• Designed for electrostatic headphones like the HiFiMAN Jade II
• Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors (MOSFET)

Connectivity

• Dual headphone output
• Inputs:
  • 1 unbalanced RCA
  • 1 balanced XLR
• Outputs:
  • 2 headphone outputs

Dimensions and Weight

• Solid aluminum casing
• Dimensions (W × D × H): 276 × 270 × 116 mm
• Weight: 6.5 kg