![]() ![]() A space in time quadraphonic vinyl Bluetooth#The specification is completed by Bluetooth supporting aptX and AAC, and two line-level inputs in addition to the phono in, while outputs run to a single pair of speaker binding posts, optical and coaxial digital, a set of pre outs should you want to add a power amp and a compact remote handset for the usual functions. Otherwise, the Vena II demonstrates the same good design practice that’s seen in the 2014 version, with volume controlled by a high-quality ALPS motorised potentiometer, and close attention paid to circuit layout and power supply provision. The output was previously fed from the main amplifier circuit: now there’s a dedicated headphone amp using current-feedback circuitry for better dynamics and detail. The work in the digital section has been echoed in the analogue areas of the Vena II and while the same Quad-designed Class AB amplification found in the original remains, it’s now powered by a new 200VA toroidal transformer with generous reservoir capacity downstream of it, designed to enhance both the amplifier’s grip and dynamic ability.Īlso new here is a low-noise JFET-based moving-magnet phono stage – acknowledging the increased interest in vinyl since the original Vena was launched – while the boom in headphone listening is also marked with enhancements in that area. The bass is much tighter and better defined, offering decent extensionĮSS’ own jitter elimination circuitry, and leaving it at that – IAG’s engineers have also paid close attention to the implementation of the conversion, including the design of the post-conversion active filtering. which will likely prove no limitation to most users.įar from just slapping in the Sabre DAC – which comes complete with The other digital inputs – two optical and one coaxial – remain limited to 24-bit/192kHz. Part of ESS Technology’s Sabre32 Reference family, it allows the Vena II to push its digital compatibility all the way up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 when connected to a computer via USB. however, the changes are more marked, with both the digital and analogue sections heavily revised: out has gone the Cirrus Logic DAC chip – which limited it to 24-bit/ 192kHz – to be replaced by the ES9018K2M DAC. Outputs: 1x optical digital 1 coaxial digital stereo pre 6.35mm headphone socket Analogue inputs: 2xRCAs 1xMM phono stage.Digital inputs: 2x optical 1x coaxial. ![]() You can support the site directly via Paypal donations ☕. TNR earns Amazon affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases.The controls, meanwhile, remain reminiscent of those on other classic Quad products of yore, such as the QII integrated and PA-One/VA-One (HFC 417): the Vena II may not have the valves of those offerings, but it’s unmistakably a Quad, and while some may feel the grey finish is a little dowdy, I think it gives the ‘basic’ version a more purposeful look that’s rather lacking from the slightly too retro wood-finished options. The little amplifier still comes in Quad’s understated Lancaster Grey as standard, with optional (and substantial) wood sleeves in a choice of sapele mahogany veneer (pictured), or gloss black or white lacquer, adding a smidge to the minimal bulk. Yes, there were mentions of loose bass and rather two-dimensional stereo imaging, but it was acknowledged that by the standards of the competition the Vena still impressed and showed no signs of what was (by Quad terms, at least) a very modest price.įast-forward half a decade, and we have the Vena II – and at first glance it’s hard to see exactly what has changed. Above all it was rather good, our test back then noting that it “proves one of the most able performers in the group across all inputs because it doesn’t obviously sound like a compact audio product”. The Vena was a fine mix of retro Quad styling and up-to-date facilities, echoing the company’s classic amps of the past while offering features such as Bluetooth wireless connectivity and a USB port to allow it to be connected straight to a computer. ![]()
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