Insight 2024 – Hybrid FET/tube preamp

No longer a totally tube circuit, but a different design: FETs in the preamp section and tubes on the output. A hybrid circuit that encompasses the best of both worlds: in each channel a pair of selected FETs preamplifies the audio signal and transfers it to the NOS tube that lowers its impedance.

Insight is a preamplifier consisting of two cabinets: the main unit and the power supply stage. This choice, certainly more expensive, allows excellent performance, both in sonic terms and in reliability.

The main unit houses two circuits: although only the NOS tubes circuit board (shielded and equipped with metallized through-holes) is visible from the transparent perspex Insight cover, underneath that board is placed the FETs stage equipped with 4 low-noise FETs (2 x channel) for the audio signal preamplification.
Tubes provide for lowering the impedance of the audio signal: this is an important step to allow the best interconnection with the power amp to which the Insight will be connected. Tube section includes two constant current generators for ideal operating stability.
For the best audio signal decoupling, Audiozen chose the CSA series by ClarityCap, objectively excellent polypropylene capacitors. The CSA Series incorporates unique CopperConnect technology that reduces signal path resistance and capacitor ESR to achieve new levels of audio performance.

The separate power supply unit is equipped with a pair of toroidal transformers, rectification is performed by a pair of metal-bodied bridge rectifiers, normally used for power amps. Innovative high efficiency, low drop-out integrated circuits are used together with large sized capacitors to stabilize voltage for FETs and tubes.

Four pairs high impedance inputs, one pair line output, one pair monitor out and a 30 Amperes power supply connector with golden pins are located on the Insight rear panel.

Volume control is managed by an excellent motorized ALPS potentiometer; Insight is supplied with a remote control for volume management.

8 mm thick solid wood sides, transparent perspex cover, solid machined aluminum knobs, 10 mm thick aluminum front panel, first class RCA connectors: all of that complete an Audiozen creation conceived without compromise.

Exceeding in listening the milestones achieved over the years was not easy, at least according to our idea of sound, but the Insight 2024 version proved that something was still perfectible: greater dynamics, solidity, transparency.
Listening experience is enriched with an extreme feeling of naturalness, musical event is sharpened with space between the instruments and the sound stage is perfectly focused, with a warm and transparent timbre.

Insight delivers a level of resolution, refinement and control that improves dramatically in every sense listening enjoyment.

A moment’s insight is sometimes worth a life’s experience – Oliver Wendell Holmes, Sr.