Delivery time approx. 1-2 weeks 

GaN stereo power amplifier with Bridge Mono functionality

The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS is a GaN stereo power amplifier with Bridge Mono functionality, derived from the Harmony GaNM. Based on gallium nitride amplifier technology, the CHORUS delivers 50 W per channel in stereo mode and 120 W of true balanced power in Bridge Mono operation, stable from 8 Ω down to 2 Ω. Compact in form and uncompromising in character, it brings the power of GaN amplifiers at an attractive Crescendo price and fits naturally into both high-end two-channel systems and modern desktop setups.

Reviews

"The Chorus, whether a single unit in Stereo Mode or two units in Bridged Mono mode, pairs perfectly with the same-size, similarly-sounding, and equally affordable Verse DAC/Preamp. The level of sound quality achieved by this unassuming duo or trio is remarkable, especially given the components’ miniature size.

While a single Chorus offers great value, I suggest purchasing two and using them in Bridge Mode if your budget allows. Even at double the cost, they remain a cost-effective alternative to the LAiV GaNMs."

LAiV Crescendo CHORUS stereo/mono GaN power amplifier | HFA - HiFi-Advice

"The CHORUS amps also run cool, are small yet hefty, and are remarkable in what they can do. I feel that if these had come out 15 years ago, they would have cost a fortune for this kind of sound and small size. Today we have options, and I am one audiophile who is happy LAIV is around, as they always deliver way above the price point.

If you want some of the coolest amps around today in the more affordable price range, I can highly recommend considering the Chorus amps from LAIV. Superb build, quality design and great sound."

LAIV Crescendo Chorus Amp is a $1k HiFi Wonder! |

Discover the highlights

GaN amplification GaN technology with ultra-fast switching delivers an output signal that is virtually indistinguishable from the original analog signal. The CHORUS features highly accurate signal modulators and driver stages, carefully tuned for musicality, transparency and resolution.

Two modes. One amplifier. 50 W per channel in unbalanced stereo mode. Switch to bridge mono to get 120 W of true balanced power from a fully differential architecture - stable from 8 Ω to 2 Ω.

Derived from the GaNM The CHORUS features the same core GaN technology as the Harmony GaNM, brought to a more accessible price point in the Crescendo series. Its wideband frequency response delivers transparency and resolution that far exceed its class.

Built to protect DC offset, overcurrent and overtemperature protection, with startup checks performed by a microcontroller. Firmware can be updated via microSD for long-term reliability and future improvements.

Dive deeper into the details

GaN technology for audiophile amplification

The heart of the Crescendo CHORUS is gallium nitride transistor technology (GaN) - a fundamental advance over traditional silicon MOSFETs in the design of audio power amplifiers. GaN transistors switch at ultra-high speeds, enabling the CHORUS to produce an output signal that is virtually indistinguishable from the original analog waveform. This directly translates into lower total harmonic distortion (THD), wider audio bandwidth and greater overall efficiency.

Unlike conventional Class-D amplifiers, which rely on slower switching components, the GaN power amplifier topology in the CHORUS achieves its performance without the thermal drawbacks and signal degradation often associated with high output power. The result is an amplifier that runs cooler, takes up less space, and delivers a soundstage that is transparent, dynamic, and effortlessly detailed.

The CHORUS is designed with high-performance signal modulators and driver stages, precisely tuned for musicality, transparency, and resolution, combining technical precision with long listening enjoyment.

Derived from the Harmony GaNM

The CHORUS is a trickle-down design from the LAiV Harmony GaNM, bringing the same core GaN amplifier technology to the Crescendo series at a significantly lower price.

Compared to the GaNM's 250 W power supply, the CHORUS uses a stamped aluminum enclosure and a 160 W power supply. Nevertheless, thanks to its wideband frequency response and the inherent advantages of GaN technology, the CHORUS continues to excel in transparency and resolution. For listeners seeking the musicality and speed of GaN amplification without the premium price of the Harmony series, the CHORUS delivers just that.

Two Modes. One Amplifier.

The Crescendo CHORUS operates in two different modes, each optimized for different system configurations and listening preferences. Whether you need a versatile stereo power amplifier or a dedicated monoblock with true balanced output, the CHORUS adapts to your listening style.

Stereo Mode

In stereo mode, the CHORUS operates as an unbalanced amplifier with two independent channels, delivering 50 W per channel into 8 Ω or 80 W per channel into 4 Ω. Both XLR (balanced) and RCA (unbalanced) inputs are supported, while the internal amplification remains unbalanced regardless of input type. The balanced input offers better THD and SNR performance. This is the plug-and-play configuration for most two-channel systems, with broad compatibility with virtually any preamplifier or DAC.

Bridge-Mono Mode

Switching to Bridge Mono mode transforms the CHORUS into a fully differential, true balanced amplifier. A single input signal is received, internally converted into a balanced signal, and drives both amplifier channels in a bridge circuit. This delivers 120 W of true balanced power at 8 Ω and 4 Ω (stable down to 2 Ω). Maximum pulse power reaches up to 165 W. Even when using the RCA input, the signal is internally converted into a balanced signal path, to fully exploit the fully differential amplifier architecture. Total power in Mono mode is increased compared to Stereo, with improved noise rejection and greater dynamics.

Recommended: Dual Mono configuration

For the ultimate performance, combine two Crescendo CHORUS units, each operating in Bridge Mono mode. Each unit handles one channel, converts it into a balanced signal, and delivers 120 W of true balanced power. Complete electrical isolation between the left and right channels, separated by miles, along with separate power supplies and amplifier stages, completely eliminates crosstalk. The result is a wider, more precise soundstage with superior spatiality - a configuration that elevates GaN amplifier performance to reference levels.

Balanced and unbalanced inputs

The CHORUS accepts both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs. The balanced input is recommended for better THD and SNR performance, longer cable runs, and environments where noise rejection is critical. Both inputs are available simultaneously, with input selection handled directly on the device.

Remarkably, even in Bridge Mono mode, the RCA input is internally converted into a balanced signal path. This ensures that the fully differential amplifier architecture always delivers its full potential.

Enhanced protection through microcontroller startup check

\The CHORUS features three layers of protection for the amplifier and your speakers. At startup, the integrated microcontroller performs a complete system check, before the CHORUS is switched to operating mode. This verifies that all circuits are operating within safe parameters, before an audio signal is passed through.

• DC protection (DC offset): Detects DC voltage at the output and disconnects the speaker terminals, to prevent damage to the drivers.

• Overcurrent protection: Monitors output current and limits drive, to prevent damage during prolonged high-level playback.

• Overtemperature protection: Triggers an automatic shutdown, if internal temperatures exceed safe limits, protecting components and extending service life.

Designed for continuous operation

\The CHORUS is designed for continuous operation, offering optimal performance and convenience, without needing to be switched off and on between listening sessions. Standby power consumption is under 2 W, and idle power consumption is less than 20 W, making continuous operation both practical and efficient.

\The chassis itself serves as a heat sink. Thanks to the high efficiency of GaN technology, the chassis gets only lukewarm during normal operation – with no fan or active cooling.

\For the correct power-on sequence, first turn on your DAC or preamplifier, then the CHORUS. When powering down, turn off the CHORUS first, then your source devices.

\The microSD card slot on the underside of the device enables firmware updates for improved operational stability and future feature enhancements. The CHORUS is extremely versatile and can be paired with the vast majority of DACs and preamplifiers available on the market – it is not limited to the Crescendo VERSE.