Denafrips Hades 15th Preamplifier

DENAFRIPS HADES 15TH PREAMPLIFIER

The Denafrips Hades 15th is a fully discrete, true balanced Class-A line preamplifier designed for high-performance stereo systems. Combining a precision 60-step relay attenuator, meticulously matched resistors, a low-noise linear power supply and a substantial aluminium chassis, Hades 15th provides accurate analogue volume control and flexible source selection.

With two balanced XLR inputs, one single-ended RCA input and both XLR and RCA outputs, it is a natural partner for high-quality DACs, analogue sources and dedicated stereo power amplifiers.

TRUE BALANCED CLASS-A ARCHITECTURE

Hades 15th uses a fully discrete, true balanced analogue signal path operating in Class A. Its carefully engineered circuit is designed to maintain signal integrity, channel separation and low distortion throughout the preamplification stage.

The unity-gain architecture provides precise analogue signal buffering and volume control without introducing additional fixed voltage gain. This makes Hades particularly suitable for systems with modern DACs and dedicated power amplifiers.

60-STEP RELAY VOLUME ATTENUATOR

At the heart of Hades 15th is a microprocessor-controlled, relay-based 60-step volume attenuator. Instead of using a conventional continuously variable potentiometer, the circuit employs precision-matched through-hole resistors to establish accurately defined volume levels.

This design helps maintain consistent channel balance, low distortion and repeatable volume settings, including at lower listening levels.

Relay-based adjustment provides a precisely controlled analogue volume function for demanding stereo systems.

PRECISION COMPONENT MATCHING

Denafrips selects and matches the resistors and other critical components used in the Hades analogue signal path. This attention to component tolerance contributes to its low noise, accurate stereo balance and excellent channel separation.

The manufacturer specifies a signal-to-noise ratio of 122dB, dynamic range greater than 121dB and stereo crosstalk of -110dB, demonstrating the technical performance of the preamplifier design.

THREE ANALOGUE INPUTS & BALANCED OUTPUTS

Hades 15th provides two balanced XLR stereo inputs and one single-ended RCA stereo input, allowing convenient connection of multiple analogue sources.

Typical combinations include a Denafrips R-2R DAC connected through XLR and an additional DAC or analogue source connected through the remaining input.

Both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA analogue outputs are provided for integration with compatible power amplifiers. The 60kΩ input impedance and low 200Ω output impedance make Hades suitable for a wide range of properly matched line-level components.

DEDICATED LINEAR POWER SUPPLY

Hades 15th incorporates a proprietary O-type transformer and a carefully designed low-noise linear power supply. Dedicated filtering and reservoir capacitors are used to provide stable power for the discrete Class-A analogue circuitry and control system.

The integrated supply avoids the need for a separate external power adapter while supporting consistent operating conditions.

REMOTE CONTROL & EVERYDAY OPERATION

The included dedicated remote control allows convenient operation of the supported preamplifier functions from the listening position.

The front panel provides direct access to input selection, standby operation and volume adjustment, while the display communicates the selected settings.

A CR2032 battery is required for the supplied remote control and is not included. The Hades remote should not be confused with the Denafrips DN-Y3 remote intended for compatible Ares, Pontus and Erato DACs.

PRECISION ALUMINIUM CONSTRUCTION

Hades 15th features a CNC-machined aluminium chassis with a refined anodised finish, precision controls and substantial mechanical construction.

Measuring 322 × 392 × 74mm, excluding the additional height of the feet, and weighing approximately 9kg, it is designed to integrate into a dedicated high-fidelity equipment rack.

Black and Silver finishes are available to complement other Denafrips components and premium stereo equipment.

DESIGNED FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE STEREO SYSTEMS

Hades 15th is particularly well suited to systems combining a high-quality standalone DAC with a dedicated stereo or monoblock power amplifier.

For example, a Denafrips Pontus 15th DAC can feed Hades through balanced XLR connections, while the preamplifier provides analogue volume control before the signal reaches a compatible power amplifier.

For users seeking a higher-tier Denafrips preamplifier, Athena 15th offers an upgrade path with expanded connectivity and a more substantial chassis.

Hades 15th is an analogue line preamplifier. It does not include a DAC, headphone amplifier or speaker-driving power amplification and must be used with a suitable power amplifier or compatible active loudspeakers.

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