Yamaha has taken it upon itself to create a headphone amplifier to match its recently launched top-end YH-5000SE headphones, but it’s not cheap at $6,999.
Shown at the Australian Hi-Fi Show in early May, the amp was also a big hit at Munich’s High End Audio show earlier this year.
Designed for people who want an ultimate sound experience from their premium headphones, the new Yamaha HA-L7A amp deliver uncompromised sound by integrating Tonal Balance, Dynamics, and Sound Image technology into the listening experience.
Yamaha claims because they paired their patented Floating and Balanced Power Amplifier technology, and ESS Technology’s renowned ES9038PRO 32-bit D/A converter, listeners will have an optimised, immersive music experience.
With the high-performance 32-bit d/a ES9038PRO converter from ESS Technology, which is DAC recognised for high-resolution audio, Yamaha included a chip with a devoted master clock with a crystal oscillator with ultra-low phase noise to work on an elevated D/A conversion.
Also, the new amplifier features a built-in eight-channel D/A converter employed for four-channel conversion to both the left and right sides. With this addition, Yamaha says the four-channel bundle provides high-quality audio output with a comprehensive dynamic range and premium signal-to-noise ratio.
The 65-year-old company also used dual toroidal transformers and high-rigidity construction because they claimed users would have a full dynamic range for audio reproduction. The vibrating toroidal transformers are also mounted securely onto a 2mm-thick steel plate.
Allowing for customisation, the new model is also inclusive of a SOUND FIELD mode that permits listeners can choose the ideal sound field to fit any content, such with its six convenient presets for replicating the sound which Yamaha says is reminiscent of a live experience or an original recording.
Additionally, the HA-L7A’s low-noise design sequesters the three circuit boards:
- The main board that handles minute signals.
- The amplifier board and the amplifier.
- The power supply board for the system.
Regarding connectivity, the HA-L7A has three front panels to ensure input/output terminals for expandability.
Specifically, NEUTRIK jacks were employed for the XLR balanced headphone jacks, and Pentaconn terminals were used for the 4.4mm 5-pole terminals. The HA-L7A also has USB (type B), coaxial, and optical, to help connect with virtually any device, such as high-resolution DAPs (digital audio players), PCs, and CD players.
The built-in XLR and RCA pre-out/line-out output terminals grant the unit also to be used as a D/A converter or preamplifier, delivering further connectivity and expandability options.
With the Pure Direct mode, Yamaha claims that users will now have the opportunity to enjoy every musical nuance all wrapped up in a sophisticated and solid 5.3kg model with sturdy construction.
Additionally, Yamaha installed five solid metal feet for stability and muffle any vibration and also includes OLED display with brilliant viewability.
Seeing a need in the market, Yamaha designed the HA-L7A headphone amplifier in response to what an audiophile would desire, which they can buy for themselves on for RRP $6,999.00 and available in Q4 2023. More information is to be released.
