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The Audio Note M2 Line Balanced preamplifier is engineered for maximum sonic performance rather than technical specification, fulfilling Audio Note (UK) Level 2 criteria. It operates in pure Class A with zero negative feedback and a single-ended circuit topology to minimize distortion and preserve the purity of the incoming signal. The preamplifier uses a pair of 5814a valves in the line stage and a valve-rectified power supply incorporating a 6X5 and an ECL82. It features a correctly designed balanced output circuit with copper/copper output transformers, providing both balanced and single-ended outputs. The design avoids phase splitters and feedback loops to reduce crossover distortion and transient anomalies, focusing on linearity and minimal transient distortion. The unit weighs 7 kg and measures 140mm (H) x 295mm (W) x 450mm (D). It accepts AC mains input of 100-120V or 220-240V at 50/60Hz. Input impedance is 100K Ohms for line level, with an input sensitivity of 126mV for 1V output and output impedance under 10 Ohms. The M2 Line Balanced is known for its natural, organic sound and transformer-driven output stage that linearizes the dynamic envelope of music without feedback-induced distortion. It is designed to drive balanced inputs of amplifiers but uses single-ended RCA inputs. The product is part of Audio Note's Level 2 range emphasizing materials and component quality for musicality rather than just measured specs. Pricing is not publicly listed and must be obtained by contacting the manufacturer or authorized dealers.
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The KBL's output impedance is 0.5Ω against the M2 Line's 10Ω, its input impedance 10Ω against 100Ω, its input sensitivity 0.8V RMS against 0.1V RMS, and its weight 12.25 kg (27 lbs) against 7 kg (15 lbs).
The kW Hybrid Line's output impedance is 0.5Ω against the M2 Line's 10Ω, its input impedance 500Ω against 100Ω, its input sensitivity 0.2V RMS against 0.1V RMS, and its weight 20.5 kg (45 lbs) against 7 kg (15 lbs).
The e.One PRE5's output impedance is 50Ω against the M2 Line's 10Ω, its input impedance 10000Ω against 100Ω, its weight 6.5 kg (14 lbs) against 7 kg (15 lbs), and its height 88 mm against 140 mm.
The MicroZOTL Level 3's output impedance is 50Ω against the M2 Line's 10Ω, its input impedance 50Ω against 100Ω, its input sensitivity 0.8V RMS against 0.1V RMS, and its weight 6.35 kg (14 lbs) against 7 kg (15 lbs).
Musical Fidelity A3.2 CR
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