HyperDrive-2 Headphone Amp / Preamp

[xrk971]

We are starting production of the new HyperDrive-2 headphone amp / preamp. This utilizes a 6N1P tube buffer and solid state Class AB headphone amp output stage for up to 2W into 32ohms. It has 3 selectable inputs and two outputs. All operation is controlled with a microcontroller for graceful startup and shutdown. Here it is next to the Warp-1 Class D amp:

Paired with a set of Vanguard bookshelf speakers that have the DNA of the classic BBC monitor:

 

[lordearl]

Looks great! Is there remote functionality for when used as a preamp?

 

[xrk971]

Sorry, no remote control on this model. For the introductory price of $799, it is offering an amazing value given the state of the art custom 6N1P SET buffer design with MCU controlled front select switches, all custom DCDC power supplies, and solid state relays for shunting output to ground for headphone protection and anti thump muting. There are 3 selectable inputs and dual buffer driven outputs.

 

[xrk971]

 

[xrk971]

 

[hallcon83]

It Looks great!

- I think you would really increase your sales/ customer base by building a remote volume control into the unit.... unfortunately your average non diy audio person - ( and even some of then/us too ) - has gotten used to having a remote available , even the inexpensive stuff from over seas comes with that option these days - just a thought towards making a greater market impact.

 

[hallcon83]

Is there any way a modification could be made to dial in how much 2nd harmonic could be injected??

I know were never satisfied! -

 

[xrk971]

One could use a motorized volume pot like an Alps type with remote. We have a motorized volume control on the new 12 tube preamp we are developing for Bob Carver:

With regards to H2, if you want more maybe there is a certain type of tube that can do that.

 

[JHClark]

X,
Viewing this preamp, I have a question about the tubes. Q: What length of life on the tubes should one plan for? Should I lay in a spare set or two, if I purchase it before they become "No Longer Available"?

My Thanks in Advance,
JHClark

 

[JHClark]

I am referring to the Hyperdrive 2 and not the Carver. Sorry for the ambiguity.
JHClark

 

[xrk971]

If you get some matched pairs of NOS Russian 6N1P, by all means keep then in hand. This premamp also works well with E88CC. It was actually designed for E88CC but I found from testing that the 6N1P measures a tad better and sounds better. But close.

 

[JHClark]

Sorry, no remote control on this model. For the introductory price of $799, it is offering an amazing value given the state of the art custom 6N1P SET buffer design with MCU controlled front select switches, all custom DCDC power supplies, and solid state relays for shunting output to ground for headphone protection and anti thump muting. There are 3 selectable inputs and dual buffer driven outputs.

X,
LSA shows $999 as the introductory price - any chance of getting one at your price above?

 

[xrk971]

That price is set by management. I was going on something they gave me a while back. It may have changed as we are running into a lot of cost uppers with the supply chain issue. I had to respin the board 3 times to accommodate lack of parts. Let me check though.

 

[Extreme_Boky]

Can you give us some info on Hyperdrive 5??

https://www.underwoodhifi.com/products/lsa-headphone-amps

.... check the bottom of the page....

 

[xrk971]

It’s in development still but a 5w into 42ohm load version of HyperDrive-2 using dual Class AB OPA547 opamps as output stages. I have several working prototypes but production is a ways off because of shortage of parts.

 

[xrk971]

Great news: The HD-2 is now about to be tested at the factory. If successful, the first 100 will be assembled over the next few days.

 

[xrk971]

Installing heatsinks for the 2W Class AB headphone amp chip.

 

[xrk971]

Pallets of HyperDrive-2’s are on the way!

 

[xrk971]

New review of HD-2 just came out.

https://www.tonepublications.com/ha/lsa-hyperdrive-2-review/

Paired with Focal Utopia’s:

And apparently, the HyperDrive-2 can drive Heretic A614 loudspeakers!

 

[Harley90]

Congrats! If I was a dedicated headphone guy, I'd have this asap.