{"product_id":"saeq-hypnos-hybrid-referenz-kopfhorerverstarker-mit-direct-drive","title":"SAEQ Hypnos - Hybrid Reference Headphone Amplifier with Direct Drive","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDelivery time upon request. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAll SAEQ devices are handmade to order.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe crowning achievement \u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYears of collaboration with RAAL have led to this model, which is also SAEQ's flagship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHYPNOS is our third amplifier specifically developed for the direct drive of ribbon headphones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs early as 2019, we began production of the renowned HSA-1b amplifier, which directly drove the avant-garde first-ever ribbon headphone: the RAAL SR-1a.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 2019, we began manufacturing direct-drive amplifiers for ribbon headphones under the RAAL-Requisite brand name.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe HSA-1b and HSA-1c amplifiers that we produced at the time for RAAL-Requisite of California (USA) played a major role in establishing the SR-1a and its esoteric reputation—it was the only ribbon headphone on the market at the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany readers may find it interesting to read the reviews of this famous bundle (SR-1a headphones + HSA-1b amplifier). You can find these reviews on our website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eProduct \u0026amp; positioning\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSAEQ flagship:\u003c\/b\u003e Hybrid amplifier (tube + transistor) for high-end headphones, developed through years of collaboration with RAAL.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDirect drive:\u003c\/b\u003e Specially designed for ribbon headphones (e.g., RAAL Immanis, SR-1a, SR-1b), eliminating the need for external interface transformers, filters, or adapter cables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHigh-end all-rounder:\u003c\/b\u003e In addition to ribbon headphones, it can effortlessly drive extremely power-hungry planar-magnetic headphones (e.g., Susvara, Abyss 1266), dynamic headphones, and in-ear monitors (IEMs).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKey technical features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHybrid topology:\u003c\/b\u003e Input transformers with Permalloy cores, followed by a selected 6N1P(EV) vacuum tube in the input stage for an exceptionally smooth sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFully analog signal processing:\u003c\/b\u003e Passive 99-step volume control without operational amplifiers (ICs) or semiconductor buffers in the signal path.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDiscrete quasi-complementary output stage:\u003c\/b\u003e Uses only high-precision NPN transistors and 0.1-Ω MOX resistors to handle extremely high current peaks (up to 7 amperes) stably.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFuture-proof with integrated EQ:\u003c\/b\u003e Switchable equalization curves for classic (SR-1a\/b) and upcoming open-back ribbon models from RAAL.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e4.4 mm jack socket for added versatility\u003c\/strong\u003e, which in-ear enthusiasts will certainly appreciate.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eDirect Drive at a new level\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur extensive experience manufacturing direct-drive amplifiers for ribbon headphones culminated in the HYPNOS, our flagship hybrid amplifier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn terms of topology, the HYPNOS is a hybrid amplifier, much like its well-known predecessor, Astraeus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe entire circuit architecture was developed to deliver impressive audio performance on every level—equally suitable for ribbon, planar magnetic, and traditional dynamic headphones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe also adopted the 99-step volume control from the Astraeus, which noticeably enhances ease of use when managing power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe HYPNOS effortlessly drives the highly acclaimed Immanis through its direct output while simultaneously powering up to two power-hungry planar magnetic headphones such as the Susvara or the Abyss 1266.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe output stage features a quasi-complementary topology and a discrete design without integrated circuits (ICs).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe high current peaks typical of direct-drive ribbon headphones made the quasi-complementary output stage the optimal solution, as it allows ideal matching of the output transformers—a necessity for efficient and stable output performance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll components in the output section use exclusively NPN transistors with minimal variation in current gain (less than 5%).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarefully selected emitter MOX (metal oxide) resistors at the output transformers effectively absorb current peaks and, thanks to their extremely low resistance (0.1 Ω), reduce unnecessary power dissipation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis also minimized voltage drops that can result from extreme current peaks of up to 7 amperes in ribbon headphones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough this presented a complex engineering challenge, we successfully solved it thanks to our previous experience with direct-drive ribbon systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe amplifier’s impulse response is crucial: It allows ribbon headphones to reveal their full potential and spatiality, creating an almost holographic soundstage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur goal with the HYPNOS was to build an amplifier that sets new standards in the world of high-end headphone amplification:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn input stage with transformers featuring Permalloy cores.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA passive 99-step volume control after the transformers—free of operational amplifier ICs (as buffers)—guarantees signal transmission without additional coloration from integrated or discrete semiconductor components, which are entirely absent from this design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing the volume attenuation, the input stage is driven by a 6N1P vacuum tube. This tube was selected after extensive comparison tests with ECC88, E88CC, 6N23P, and 6922 tubes. The 6N1P (EV) simply offered the smoothest sonic signature. We were guided by the desire to provide listeners with the most complex and effortless soundstage that a hybrid topology can deliver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional versatility is provided by the 4.4 mm headphone jack, which in-ear enthusiasts will certainly appreciate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHYPNOS also features built-in equalization (EQ) developed for the upcoming open-back ribbon headphone models that RAAL is planning for the next few years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThanks to its integrated EQ, you can also connect classic open-back ribbon models such as the legendary RAAL SR-1a and SR-1b.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith HYPNOS, you can easily drive both existing and future open-back ribbon models simply by activating the corresponding EQ curve—without external filters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHYPNOS represents our step into the new standard established by ribbon headphones. It fulfills users’ desire to connect ribbon headphones to an amplifier just like any other type—without relying on interface transformers or special adapter cables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts sonic potential is immediately apparent when paired with any high-end headphone model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtle yet authoritative: HYPNOS gives audiophiles the opportunity to own a single amplifier capable of driving virtually all types of headphones (except electrostatic headphones) without external adapters or dongles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are convinced that audio enthusiasts will love the HYPNOS. It gives instruments and voices a new, enhanced presence across all types of headphones and makes the ribbon headphone experience more seamless, enjoyable, and sonically complete through its direct drive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTechnical specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHeadphone output load impedance – Direct:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDirect output: 0.3–0.5 Ω (for 4-pin XLR ribbon headphones) and 4–600 Ω for other connectors\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSpeaker output load impedance:\u003c\/b\u003e 4–16 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOutput power:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e25 W \/ 4 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e15 W \/ 8 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e8 W \/ 16 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4 W \/ 32 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2 W \/ 64 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1 W \/ 120 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.5 W \/ 300 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e0.25 W \/ 600 Ω at 1 kHz \/ sine wave\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrequency response:\u003c\/b\u003e Output 10 V sine wave: 10 Hz – 50 kHz (-0.5 dB \/ ±1 dB)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePower bandwidth:\u003c\/b\u003e Better than 10 Hz – 50 kHz (-0.5 dB \/ ±1 dB) at 5 W \/ 16 Ω\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal harmonic distortion (THD):\u003c\/b\u003e Better than 0.15% at 1 kHz\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSignal-to-noise ratio (SNR):\u003c\/b\u003e Better than 93 dB\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInput impedance:\u003c\/b\u003e 10 kΩ via input audio transformers with Permalloy cores\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInput sensitivity for full output:\u003c\/b\u003e 0.7 V RMS\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMaximum input overload voltage:\u003c\/b\u003e 8.5 V RMS (25 V peak-to-peak)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eInputs:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eINPUT 1: 2x RCA (Cinch) unbalanced (single-ended)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eINPUT 2: 2x 3-pin balanced XLR (female)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOutputs:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1x 4-pin female XLR + 6.3 mm jack – Direct\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1x 4-pin female XLR + 6.3 mm jack + 4.4 mm for direct IEM \/ attenuation 5–10 dB (balanced magnetostatic \u0026amp; dynamic headphones)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMax. power consumption:\u003c\/b\u003e 150 W, 40 W without signal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOperating voltage:\u003c\/b\u003e 115 V \/ 230 V AC (selector switch)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e Height 130 mm, width 395 mm, depth 250 mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWeight:\u003c\/b\u003e Net weight: 10 kg, packaged: 10.5 kg\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eRemote control:\u003c\/b\u003e YES – Type RC-1\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Audio Essence","offers":[{"title":"Hypnos Black","offer_id":56823690822018,"sku":null,"price":13499.0,"currency_code":"CHF","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hypnos Gold","offer_id":56823690854786,"sku":null,"price":13499.0,"currency_code":"CHF","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0561\/0304\/3261\/files\/SAEQ-HYPNOS-02-01_Small_9ea47825-4535-420c-a3ac-6edffedb3340.jpg?v=1785933931","url":"https:\/\/audioessence.ch\/en\/products\/saeq-hypnos-hybrid-reference-headphone-amplifier-with-direct-drive","provider":"Audio Essence","version":"1.0","type":"link"}