Ayon sIgma

Ayon Audio has released new budget 32-bit valve DAC/Preamp with a DSD capability. The new Sigma digital/analog converter/ preamplifier is a valve design by virtue of its single-ended output stage and differential gain stage being composed of a highperformance 6H30 valve (one per channel) and valves also being used in the power supply. Ayon provides all valves with a highcapacity power supply and a logic-sequenced soft-start power-up to extend valve life. ‘ As well as being used as a conventional DAC, the Sigma is also prepared for computer playback and DSD professional audio use,’ said Boris Granovsky, of Absolute HiEnd. ‘ The sound is powerful with fantastic bass performance, super-dynamic, airy, detailed and holographic.’ The single-ended pure class-A preamplifier circuit uses no negative feedback and ultra-short signal paths, where even the copper traces on the PCB are kept to minimum length. ‘ All Ayon Audio’s circuits are based on the simplest most direct circuit paths for purest musical sound and high reliability,’ said Granovsky. ‘ There are no solid state devices in the analog tube output (signal path), minimal discrete wiring for optimum signal propagation, no followers or buffers in the signal path and Ayon Audio components are all fully hand-assembled to ensure the highest level of craftsmanship.’ Internally, the Ayon Audio Sigma has a switchable hardware PCM upsampler (enabling CD sources to be upsampled to 24/192k if desired), plus native 192kHz PCM and DSD×128 conversion. Available now in black or silver anodised aluminium finishes, the Ayon Audio Sigma retails for $4,990. For further information, please contact Absolute Hi End on (04) 8877 7999 or visit the website at www.absolutehiend.com