{"product_id":"ladder-chopin-ii-r2r","title":"LADDER Chopin II R2R Fully Balanced Class-A Discrete Preamplifier | Pure Class-A Line Stage with 60-Step Relay Attenuator","description":"\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/a.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860063\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/b.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860063\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/c.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860063\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/d.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860063\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/e.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860062\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/f.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860062\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/g.LADDER_Chopin_II_R2R.jpg?v=1793860063\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 dir=\"auto\"\u003eLADDER Chopin II R2R Fully Balanced Class-A Discrete Preamplifier\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe LADDER Chopin II is a pure Class-A, fully balanced and fully discrete line-stage preamplifier designed for high-end analog systems. Engineered with a unity-gain architecture, precision relay volume control, and a meticulously regulated linear power supply, it delivers exceptional transparency, channel balance, and low-noise performance for discerning audiophiles seeking a dedicated preamplifier without added coloration or gain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003ePure Class-A Fully Balanced Discrete Architecture\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eAt the core of the Chopin II is a fully differential, fully discrete Class-A amplification circuit using field-effect transistors in the output stages. The signal path maintains unity gain at 0 dB, focusing purely on source selection and precise volume control rather than adding gain. This design ensures strong noise rejection, consistent channel balance, and a highly transparent, natural presentation with excellent imaging and tonal purity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003e60-Step Microprocessor-Controlled Relay Attenuator\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eVolume control is handled by a high-precision 60-step relay attenuator controlled by a microprocessor. Precision-matched resistors ensure accurate level matching between left and right channels across the entire range, eliminating the channel imbalance and contact degradation often associated with traditional potentiometers. The result is repeatable, transparent volume adjustment with minimal distortion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003eHigh-Performance Linear Power Supply\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003ePower is supplied by a 65W pure-copper toroidal transformer backed by a low-noise ERSE capacitor bank and eight independently regulated power supplies. This multi-stage regulation isolates different circuit sections, minimizing noise and ensuring stable operating conditions for the analog stages under varying loads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003eVersatile Balanced and Single-Ended Connectivity\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe Chopin II offers flexible connectivity with two balanced XLR inputs, one single-ended RCA input, and corresponding balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs. Output levels reach 4.0 Vrms via XLR and 2.0 Vrms via RCA, with carefully optimized input and output impedances for seamless integration into both balanced and single-ended systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003ePrecision Construction and Low-Noise Design\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eHoused in a solid aluminum-alloy chassis, the Chopin II combines structural rigidity with effective shielding against external interference. Gold-plated single-crystal copper RCA terminals and carefully selected internal components further support signal integrity and long-term reliability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003eAbout LADDER\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eLADDER is a high-fidelity audio brand specializing in discrete, high-performance analog and digital components. Focusing on pure Class-A designs, precision engineering, and transparent musical reproduction, LADDER products are developed for audiophiles who value accurate signal control and refined system synergy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003eTechnical Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eArchitecture: Pure Class-A, fully balanced, fully discrete line stage\u003cbr\u003eVolume Control: 60-step microprocessor-controlled relay attenuator\u003cbr\u003eInputs: 2 x stereo XLR, 1 x stereo RCA\u003cbr\u003eInput Impedance: 12.2 kΩ (single-ended), 60 kΩ (balanced)\u003cbr\u003eOutputs: Stereo RCA, stereo XLR\u003cbr\u003eOutput Level: 2.0 Vrms (RCA), 4.0 Vrms (XLR)\u003cbr\u003eOutput Impedance: 200 Ω (single-ended), 400 Ω (balanced)\u003cbr\u003eGain: Unity gain (0 dB)\u003cbr\u003eFrequency Response: 10 Hz–80 kHz (−0.3 dB)\u003cbr\u003eTHD+N: 0.00% (manufacturer specified)\u003cbr\u003eSNR: 120 dB\u003cbr\u003eDynamic Range: \u0026gt;121 dB\u003cbr\u003eStereo Crosstalk: −110 dB\u003cbr\u003ePower Supply: 65W pure-copper toroidal transformer with eight independent regulated supplies\u003cbr\u003ePower Consumption: 1W idle, 20W operational\u003cbr\u003eChassis: Aluminum alloy\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 320 x 330 x 60 mm\u003cbr\u003eNet Weight: 6.5 kg\u003cbr\u003eAvailable Colors: Black, Silve\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 dir=\"auto\"\u003eQ\u0026amp;A\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat type of amplifier is the LADDER Chopin II?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt is a pure Class-A, fully balanced, fully discrete line-stage preamplifier with unity gain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes the Chopin II have a built-in DAC?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNo, it is a dedicated analog preamplifier and requires an external DAC or analog source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat volume control system does it use?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt employs a 60-step microprocessor-controlled relay attenuator with precision-matched resistors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat are the available inputs and outputs?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInputs include two balanced XLR and one single-ended RCA. Outputs include balanced XLR and single-ended RCA.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is the power supply design?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt uses a 65W pure-copper toroidal transformer with eight independently regulated power supplies and an ERSE capacitor bank.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"LADDER","offers":[{"title":"LADDER-Chopin-II-Black","offer_id":68259945054512,"sku":"LADDER-Chopin-II-Black","price":1694.1,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"LADDER-Chopin-II-Silver","offer_id":68259945087280,"sku":"LADDER-Chopin-II-Silver","price":1694.1,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0915\/6712\/8880\/files\/4.MuseHiFiM7PlayerES9039Q2M_5c5e3007-439b-400c-852c-1f109e0d73e1.webp?v=1793859712","url":"https:\/\/aehifi.com\/products\/ladder-chopin-ii-r2r","provider":"AEHIFI SHOP","version":"1.0","type":"link"}