The new reference integrated amplifier from Densen is perhaps
the most advanced integrated amp on the market. It is filled
with advanced solutions, which all share the goal of giving
you even more musicality and flexibility.
The volume is controlled by an extremely precise attenuator
made of Vishay metal film resistors, which is switched by
relays controlled by the microprocessor. Compared to a normal
volume potentiometer of the kind used in the majority of all
preamps, the resistor network has virtually no self induced
noise and an extremely low distortion. This results in an
unsurpassed precision and refinement, and the attenuator contains
no less than 200 steps! This makes it possible to adjust the
volume very precisely (0.5 dB) even when the sound is so low
that an ordinary volume control would create an uneven balance
between left and right.
The B-150 output stage utilizes Densen’s unique ”DMCD”
(Densen Mass Current Distribution) technology. The B-150 is,
as with all other Densen amplifiers, a true non-feedback construction
(no global or local feedback), The DMCD technology also secures
an extremely firm grip on the speakers combined with a fast,
precise and truly transparent sound. As the B-150 is a wide
bandwidth design it goes straight to 400.000Hz, resulting
in improved slew-rate.
The B-150 is built using surface mounting techniques, and
the components are mounted with a precision of 0.02mm (!)
using silver solder. All solderings are made in an artificial
atmosphere, consisting of nitrogen, to avoid oxidation of
the solderings. The power supply is massive, consisting of
a 750VA transformer and having a storage capacity of 130.000uF
with 4 separate rectifiers, two of which are capable of 3.000VA.
Unusually for an amplifier, not all of the capacitors are
mounted in a capacitor bank, as some of them are located directly
adjoining the output stage for faster power delivery. All
resistors are laser trimmed metal film from Vishay with a
precision of 0.1%. The B-150 delivers 100W in 8 ohm and 200W
in 4 ohm.
The transformer is custom-made for the B-150, and is winded
using a new technique. This technique reduces vibration from
the transformer and therefore reduces mechanical noise from
the cabinet. At the same time, this prevents mechanical vibrations
from reaching the delicate audio signals on the PCB. It also
works as an isolation transformer, thereby eliminating the
need to use separate power conditioners.
The special winding techniques used also ensure that the
transformer modulates less than is normal (for other amplifiers)
during the delivery of large amounts of current. Transformers
normally lower the voltage during the delivery of large amounts
of current which results in compression of the signal’s
dynamics. As a result of the new winding method the transformer
in the B-150 is extremely stiff, which means that the voltage
does not drop under large current deliveries.
The printed circuit board is made of Teflon, and is double
sided to allow for the signal on one side and the ground plane
on the other, thereby optimising interference free signal
transfer.
The B-150 contains sockets for the SB Board for surround,
DP-03 and DP-06 MM and MC stages. There is also the possibility
of upgrading the B-150 with the DNRG external power supply
to further enhance the sound quality, so as to experience
truly breathtaking musical experiences. The B-150 is also
prepared for the SAXO electronic crossover, so that the B-150
can be used in active systems. This is done by mounting the
crossover internally in the B-150 in a socket. The SAXO crossover
will fit all passive speakers on the market.
The DenLink system implemented in all Densen products allows
2-way communication in multiroom installations. On the B-150,
the link system will allow the user to power up a link amplifier
in the kitchen, or another room, and then control the main
system in for example the living room, sending the signals
to and from the kitchen, for playback in another room. It
will be possible to have full display information in another
room, with status on all products. The DenLink / Multiroom
system is also prepared for controlling the lights, so you
will be able to dim them.
Audiophile Surround Sound
The SB boards (Surround Boards) are not a technological breakthrough,
but they are a revolution as far as new features go. The SB
boards are add-on boards for the B-150. The B-150 is a dedicated
2 channel product initially, but by mounting the SB boards
you get analog 5.1/ 7.1 line input and 5.1 / 7.1 line preout.
This means you can easily connect a surround processor, DVD-player
or SACD-player. With the SB boards implemented, you can connect
a B-340 (4 channel amplifier) and then have 6 channels (5+1)
of high grade amplification. This is a very easy and sonically
superior way to enter the world of home cinema or Super Audio
surround.
The SB boards exist in two versions: the SB-02 board is the
standard version with a competitive price, allowing for easy
Surround; SB-01 is the reference version, with extremely high
quality preamp stages. The SB-01 will give the same sound
quality as the B-150 in all channels.
All 5.1 and/or 7.1 channels can be controlled from the Gizmo
system remote, so that you can adjust for perfect levels and
balance between the channels from your favourite listening
and viewing position.
When you have the SB board installed in the B-150 you get
unsurpassed musicality for a 7.1 system. We do not hesitate
to call it the first real musical surround system ever.
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