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The Musical Fidelity kW Hybrid Line Preamplifier is a two-channel preamplifier combining tube and transistor technologies to deliver high-fidelity audio performance. It features a frequency response of 20Hz to 30kHz with ±0.5dB variation, a maximum output voltage exceeding 62V RMS, and a maximum instantaneous output current of 4.5A peak-to-peak. The output impedance is 0.5 ohms, and it has a line input impedance of 500k ohms. The preamplifier offers a maximum voltage gain of 12.5dB, total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of 0.0068% at 5V output, and a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 105dB (A-weighted at 1V output, half volume). It supports four line inputs (CD, SACD, Tuner, Aux), a tape loop, and a unity gain pass-through input for home theater integration. The design includes a low-feedback hybrid circuit with a soldered-in Mu Vista (6112) vacuum tube in each channel's driver stage, ensuring ultra-quiet operation and long tube life. The preamplifier is capable of driving nearly 20W RMS into 8 ohms, making it virtually impossible to overload. Dimensions are 19" (483mm) wide, 6.6" (167mm) high, and 17.7" (450mm) deep, with a net weight of 45.3 lbs (20.5 kg). It is noted for its elegant brushed aluminum front panel, black faux handles, and large volume control, with an integrated power supply for a more compact size compared to its predecessor. The kW Hybrid is single-ended only and designed to present an easy load to sources with its low output impedance and high input impedance.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The MD 301's signal-to-noise is 110 dB against the kW Hybrid Line's 105 dB, its thd 0.050% against 0.007%, its output impedance 2.2Ω against 0.5Ω, and its input impedance 10Ω against 500Ω.
The Kaitaki's signal-to-noise is 80 dB against the kW Hybrid Line's 105 dB, its thd 0.050% against 0.007%, its output impedance 100Ω against 0.5Ω, and its input sensitivity 0.1V RMS against 0.2V RMS.
The KBL's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the kW Hybrid Line's 105 dB, its input impedance 10Ω against 500Ω, and its input sensitivity 0.8V RMS against 0.2V RMS. Both share output impedance (0.5Ω).
The Jazz's thd is 0.020% against the kW Hybrid Line's 0.007%, its output impedance 50Ω against 0.5Ω, and its input impedance 75Ω against 500Ω. Both share signal-to-noise (105 dB).
Balanced Audio Technology VK-50SE
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