Description
The new reference integrated amplifier from Densen is perhaps the most advanced integrated amp on the market. It is filled with advanced solutions, which all share the goal of giving you even more musicality and flexibility.
The volume is controlled by an extremely precise attenuator made of Vishay metal film resistors, which is switched by relays controlled by the microprocessor. Compared to a normal volume potentiometer of the kind used in the majority of all preamps, the resistor network has virtually no self induced noise and an extremely low distortion. This results in an unsurpassed precision and refinement, and the attenuator contains no less than 200 steps! This makes it possible to adjust the volume very precisely (0.5 dB) even when the sound is so low that an ordinary volume control would create an uneven balance between left and right.
The B-150 output stage utilizes Densen’s unique ”DMCD” (Densen Mass Current Distribution) technology. The B-150 is, as with all other Densen amplifiers, The DMCD technology also secures an extremely firm grip on the speakers combined with a fast, precise and truly transparent sound. As the B-150 is a wide bandwidth design it goes straight to 400.000Hz, resulting in improved slew-rate.
The B-150 is built using surface mounting techniques, and the components are mounted with a precision of 0.02mm (!) using silver solder. All solderings are made in an artificial atmosphere, consisting of nitrogen, to avoid oxidation of the solderings. The power supply is massive, consisting of a 750VA transformer and having a storage capacity of 130.000uF with 4 separate rectifiers, two of which are capable of 3.000VA. Unusually for an amplifier, not all of the capacitors are mounted in a capacitor bank, as some of them are located directly adjoining the output stage for faster power delivery. All resistors are laser trimmed metal film from Vishay with a precision of 0.1%. The B-150 delivers 100W in 8 ohm and 200W in 4 ohm.
The transformer is custom-made for the B-150, and is winded using a new technique. This technique reduces vibration from the transformer and therefore reduces mechanical noise from the cabinet. At the same time, this prevents mechanical vibrations from reaching the delicate audio signals on the PCB. It also works as an isolation transformer, thereby eliminating the need to use separate power conditioners.
The special winding techniques used also ensure that the transformer modulates less than is normal (for other amplifiers) during the delivery of large amounts of current. Transformers normally lower the voltage during the delivery of large amounts of current which results in compression of the signal’s dynamics. As a result of the new winding method the transformer in the B-150 is extremely stiff, which means that the voltage does not drop under large current deliveries.
The printed circuit board is made of Teflon, and is double sided to allow for the signal on one side and the ground plane on the other, thereby optimising interference free signal transfer.
The B-150 contains sockets for the SB Board for surround, DP-03 and DP-06 MM and MC stages. There is also the possibility of upgrading the B-150 with the DNRG external power supply to further enhance the sound quality, so as to experience truly breathtaking musical experiences. The B-150 is also prepared for the SAXO electronic crossover, so that the B-150 can be used in active systems. This is done by mounting the crossover internally in the B-150 in a socket. The SAXO crossover will fit all passive speakers on the market.
The DenLink system implemented in all Densen products allows 2-way communication in multiroom installations. On the B-150, the link system will allow the user to power up a link amplifier in the kitchen, or another room, and then control the main system in for example the living room, sending the signals to and from the kitchen, for playback in another room. It will be possible to have full display information in another room, with status on all products. The DenLink / Multiroom system is also prepared for controlling the lights, so you will be able to dim them.
Audiophile Surround Sound
The SB boards (Surround Boards) are not a technological breakthrough, but they are a revolution as far as new features go. The SB boards are add-on boards for the B-150. The B-150 is a dedicated 2 channel product initially, but by mounting the SB boards you get analog 5.1/ 7.1 line input and 5.1 / 7.1 line preout. This means you can easily connect a surround processor, DVD-player or SACD-player. With the SB boards implemented, you can connect a B-340 (4 channel amplifier) and then have 6 channels (5+1) of high grade amplification. This is a very easy and sonically superior way to enter the world of home cinema or Super Audio surround.
The SB boards exist in two versions: the SB-02 board is the standard version with a competitive price, allowing for easy Surround; SB-01 is the reference version, with extremely high quality preamp stages. The SB-01 will give the same sound quality as the B-150 in all channels.
All 5.1 and/or 7.1 channels can be controlled from the Gizmo system remote, so that you can adjust for perfect levels and balance between the channels from your favourite listening and viewing position.
When you have the SB board installed in the B-150 you get unsurpassed musicality for a 7.1 system. We do not hesitate to call it the first real musical surround system ever.