Violectric brings back the headphone amplifier HPA V281 in a Limited Edition. Even years after its discontinuation, demand for the true balanced amplifier remained high, particularly in the USA, so Violectric introduced the new V281-LE at CanJam in New York. It features one balanced XLR input, two unbalanced RCA inputs, one balanced XLR output, one unbalanced RCA output and headphone outs as 4-pin XLR (balanced), 4.4-mm Pentaconn (balanced) and 6.3-mm jack (unbalanced). The famous Pre Gain feature makes the V281-LE the perfect amp for almost every type of headphones. The volume control is realized as a 128-step reed relay circuit, providing unparalleled channel matching and transparency.
Due to popular demand: V281 returns as Limited Edition
The Violectric HPA V281-LE is a limited re-run of the famous V281. The original high-quality headphone amplifier with switchable line outs for integration into sophisticated listening environments enjoys unbroken popularity despite not being produced since 2020. The continued demand for the excellent head amp motivated Violectric to bring it back – as a Limited Edition, targeted exclusively at the US-American market. The “Limited Edition” badge is the only change of design, however – in every other aspect, the V281-LE is just the V281, exactly as it should be.
Balanced in, balanced out
Like the original, the Violectric HPA V281-LE is a true balanced amplifier, boasting four built-in amps. The fully balanced design also shows in the connections: XLR connectors as line inputs and outputs on the one side, 4-pin XLR and 4.4-mm Pentaconn connectors for balanced headphones on the other. For the sake of flexibility and compatibility, unbalanced connections are also possible. Two RCA inputs accept additional line sources and a standard 6.3-mm output jack drives conventional headphones. Experience shows, however: once you tried balanced headphones, you do not go back.
Flexible integration and adaptable settings
The connectors are but one feature of the Violectric HPA V281-LE that promotes versatility. The device can also be adapted to suit the needs of its environment. Possibly the most prominent example of this devotion to customizability is the famous Pre Gain feature: a set of switches allows for the adjustment of the headphone level to compensate for different headphone types. This feature ensures optimal travel for the volume control, no matter what type or impedance the headphones of choice are. A similar gain adjustment can be applied to the line outputs. They can also be switched to be affected or not affected by the central volume control, depending on whether the connected device has its own volume control. This outstanding adaptability makes the V281-LE ideal for pretty much any listening setup.
High-quality parts and exquisite craftsmanship
Violectric products are designed, developed and built in the company’s own manufacture in southern Germany. Well-trained specialists immaculately marry top-tier components for that true “Made in Germany” feel – and sound! All inputs and outputs are gold-plated, the black anodized aluminum enclosure is topped by a solid, laser-engraved aluminum front panel. The absolute highlight is the volume control: the 128-step reed relay circuit ensures utmost channel matching, clarity and precision at 0.8 dB per step. There simply is no better way to set audio volume. Peak quality, peak performance – the Violectric HPA V281-LE delivers.
Price and availability
The limited edition Violectric HPA V281-LE is available immediately from US retailers. The MSRP is 2,699.95 USD.