TAD-C1000-S / TAD-C1000-K TADL Introduces the Evolution Series TAD-C1000 Preamplifier

Sharing a design language with the TAD-D1000TX disc player and TAD-M1000 power amplifier

TAD-C1000-S / TAD-C1000-K

Model Description Color Available
TAD-C1000-S Preamplifier Silver Mid October 2023
TAD-C1000-K* Black

* Built-to-order model

Technical Audio Devises Laboratories, Inc. (TADL) today announced the TAD-C1000 preamplifier as the newest addition to its Evolution Series of hi-fi audio components.

The TAD-C1000 is designed to amplify signals from source components, such as a disc player, without compromising accuracy and purity in signal processing and transmission for further amplification by power amplifiers. The TAD-C1000 employs a design language shared with the critically acclaimed TAD-D1000TX disc player, TAD-C1000 D/A converter, and TAD-M1000 power amplifier already offered in the Evolution Series.

Main Features

1) Immaculate preamplification circuit

TADL has developed a preamplifier version of a single-stage, current-feedback amplifier originally developed for the TAD-M700 power amplifier and other TAD hi-fi components, and incorporated it into the flat amplifier section of the TAD-C1000. To achieve the highest level of complementarity of signals, we have tested the performance characteristics of each FET device and chosen matching pairs for positive and negative elements for the TAD-C1000. This meticulous attention to detail has taken the stability of the preamplification circuit to a higher level.

2) Center-mounted, ball-bearing-supported volume knob

The volume knob has an exquisite look and feel. It is mounted on high-precision ball bearings to ensure an exceptionally smooth rotation. Its center-mounted design signifies the symmetrical layout of the internal circuits in the tradition of Evolution Series of hi-fi components.

3) Perfectly symmetrical circuit layout

To suppress even the smallest amplification errors of positive and negative signals, as well as between right and left channels, the audio circuit patterns and parts are symmetrically laid out on the bottom chassis. The pursuit of perfectly symmetrical design does not stop there. We have even gone as far as to lay out two power transformers, the chassis construction, and rear-panel jacks symmetrically to achieve optimum weight and vibration balances. With these elaborate symmetrical designs, signals that go through the TAD-C1000 are amplified in a unified electrical and mechanical environment, which contributes to a sound with a greater stereophonic impact.

4) Intricate vibration-control design

The heavy, sturdy body of the TAD-C1000 is supported by Evolution Series’ signature spike-shaped feet. The minimum contact with the surface on which the TAD-C1000 sits keeps external vibrations from traveling through the feet and eliminates their adverse effect on circuits and parts inside the case. Furthermore, two power transformers are each mounted on a 6-mm thick brass base that dampens transformer-induced vibrations.

5) High-purity power circuit

To increase the purity of power supply, the internal coil of the transformer is directly connected to the power supply circuit, minimizing the contact points with lead-out wires. Moreover, terminals for directly connected coils, mounting terminals for motherboards, and clamping screws are all made of oxygen-free copper coated with nonmagnetic materials to eliminate even the slightest magnetic distortions.

The audio and control circuits are each powered by a dedicated large toroidal transformer. The one for the audio circuit has independent internal coils for right and left channels. This ingenious grounding system ensures perfect symmetry between positive and negative signal levels and between right and left channels.

6) TAD’s custom-made parts and components

TAD’s custom-made electronic volume control circuit boasts ladder-resistance switching that achieves exceptionally precise attenuation performance and an ultra-low distortion of less than 0.0005% at 1 Vrms input. In addition, the power circuit employs TAD’s custom-made electrolytic smoothing capacitors, as well as large-capacity, ultra-low-distortion film coupling capacitors to achieve a wider low cut-off frequency range.

Specifications

Input jacks 4 balanced, 2 unbalanced
Output jacks 2 balanced, 2 unbalanced
Rated output voltage 1.6 V (balanced), 0.8 V (unbalanced)
Maximum output voltage 16 Vrms (balanced), 8 Vrms (unbalanced)
Signal-to-noise ratio 120 dB
Frequency response From 10 Hz to 100 kHz at -1 dB
Power requirements AC 120 V, 60 Hz (USA); AC 220 V to 240 V, 50 Hz /60 Hz (Europe, Asia)
Power consumption 26 W (0.5 W or less during standby)
Dimensions 440 mm (W) x 150 mm (H) x 424 mm (D) [17-5/16 in. (W) x 5-14/16 in. (H) x 16-11/16 in. (D)]
Weight 17.0 kg (37.4 lbs)