Introducing my minimalist DIY project – the Havtorn Audio SOLiSTE.
The idea behind this project is actually quite simple. Focus on what is absolutely essential only and omit all the rest. In concrete terms, this strategy translates into a simple no-nonsense construction with sound optimization being a top priority and where all internal components are contained in a tiny die-cast aluminum enclosure, the foot print of which is smaller than that of a regular CD cover.
Audiophile re-production has very little to do with the size, brand or your wallet. Instead, it is the end result of a carefully selected balance of a number of critical factors including, not least, the surrounding environment.
SOLiSTE is a tiny integrated amplifier using high-grade audiophile components. Depending on chosen external power supply voltage (12V – 24V), the amplifier will deliver between 20 and 50 watts per channel (into 8 ohms). In line with pursued “less-is-more” strategy, this model only comes with a single (gold-plated RCA) input. There is also no output for headphone. The front panel in solid aluminum sports a small toggle power switch and a solid machined aluminum volume knob. Nothing else.
This little amplifier rests on three solid brass cones and should be placed on a block of wood made of either spruce or pine. The circuit board is supported and isolated from vibration by neoprene rubber pad. A brass weight can be placed on top of the amplifier to further improve the performance.
Currently run it in a set-up with Decware Studio Grade (DSG) interconnects or Ethernet Cat5-based DIY interconnects (source: Accuphase DP70V) respectively Belden 4797 speaker cables or Ethernet Cat5-based DIY speaker cables connected to a pair of hiQ full-range speakers from Quali-Fi (model Bach).
I have to admit that I am pretty pleased with the sonic signature of this little cracker in the described configuration so far.
To be continued…
vintagehifiproducts 