SENNHEISER HDV820 HEADPHONE AMP

Sennheiser has released a new headphone amplifier, the HDV820, which it claims has higher resolution and lower distortion than its previous HDVD800. ‘ The HDV 820 amplifier allows for unadulterated listening enjoyment, thanks to its improved fully balanced signal processing and extremely low harmonic distortion,’ said Manuel Ricke of Sennheiser. ‘ It provides an incredibly pure sonic experience for every audio source.’ The digital section of the HDV820 is powered by an ESS SABRE32 DAC using completely balanced topology. It’s a 32-bit DAC that can handle PCM sampling rates up to 384 kHz and DSD rates up to 12.3MHz. The analogue power amplifier section has multiple audio outputs: unbalanced via a dual XLR3/6.3mm Neutrik socket, balanced via XLR4 sockets and balanced via two 4.4mm balanced phono sockets. The 4.4mm balanced phono connector has been specified by the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA) as the connector to be used in the future for all balanced headphone outputs. ‘ Standardising this connector will minimise today’s complexity of non-standard connectors and due to its small dimensions and very low contact resistance the Pentaconn connector is suitable for both mobile and home applications’, Ricke told Australian Hi-Fi Magazine. Designed and manufactured in Germany, the Sennheiser HDV820 retails for $3,799.95 (RRP).

For further information, please contact Sennheiser Australia on 1800 648 628 or visit the website at en-au.sennheiser.com