I'm not sure on the best way to approach this, but with Jaben now stocking both products (announced earlier
www.jaben.net/forums/index.php?topic=20459.0) there is the opportunity for more people to try out the products, ask questions and even let me know what they think either direct by email or using this forum. I see this as a great opportunity for providing a more open - within reason - communication channel, since the company Website I've created perhaps suggests that the company is a little bit of a closed atomic entity impenetrable to outside ideas/influence. This is far from the truth, in fact, as the 'company' is still at an early stage I actually want to make this more open, by firstly using this forum and possibly later creating a Blog linked to the main site - whatever makes sense in the context of developing the Business.
Anyway, as I type this I'm listening to something quite special: my prototype uHA-1xx asynchronous USB DAC headphone amp. This won't replace the uHA-120, as it is intended to naturally complement the current product offering (priced accordingly). At some point I'll create and add a coming soon page to the main website, but for now - because this seems easier - here is a brief idea of the features for this product (TBC):
Amplifier main board features:
Higher power output stage - similar to AHA-120 but class AB biased with current limiting probably set at +/-100mA/channel (can be increased to +/-200mA with addition of AVRR module);
Op amp stage class A biased using current source;
Op amp DIP socket enabling user to use preferred input stage (from compatible device list);
Gain jumpers (6dB/12dB);
Selectable output impedance using jumpers (<1ohm/series resistor value (probably 10ohm could be changed to suit));
Lower power consumption than uHA-120 (with same input stage);
Connectors for optional 24bit/9kHz USB DAC module* with SPDIF out via headphone output (mini-TOSLINK).
* DAC source selected when input jack removed.
DAC module board features (initial version):
True 24bit/96kHz USB streaming module;
Module Audio output
- 106dB SNR 'A' rated;
- 89dB THD @ -1dFS;
- 2Vrms line level
One key aspect of the design - aside from cramming in a more powerful discrete buffer stage and being able to change front end opamp to suit preferences - is the DAC module. Initially the first module prototype is using a very respectable Wolfson 24bit 192kHz DAC; plus most importantly for ensuring excellent system level performance is the use of an Asynchronous capable USB 24bit/96kHz streaming interface, coupled with a few tricks that I've learnt from the analog domain in terms of obtaining excellent results from the board layout. This will enable creating modules fitted with Wolfson, TI, Analogue Devices or whatever flavour of DAC can be fitted onto the DAC module PCB. This means that I'll be able to offer different DAC modules to suit end user budget and personal preference.
Also, for existing customers and new customers alike I'm working on a micro USB (concept is also same scale as uHA), with premium DAC(s) and with balanced and unbalanced I/O, which I think when combined with the 24bit 96kHz USB transport should make the use of the higher end DAC(s) worth while (from a system perspective). I'm not going into any more detail on this yet because this is still at the design concept stage, however, there will be some form of micro USB higher end DAC offering from the company, hopefully also being launched around Q4 2011..
Cheers For now!
Justin
