Burson Audio AB-160 Audio Buffer Details
The Burson Audio AB-160 Audio Buffer is designed to remove any impedance mismatch between your gear by acting as an isolation platform between any of the source components e.g.(CD, DVD, SACD player, Phono preamp, PC sound card or even an iPod) and downstream amplification (preamp, integrated amp, etc). The Burson Audio Buffer will increase signal transmission efficiency between all components, unlocking the potential of any system.
Impedance mismatching refers to a situation where the various audio gears are not fully synergized. This usually occurs between the source (CD player, Dac, iPod) and the rest of the audio setup. When the audio system is not fully synergized, it is not fully optimized, resulting in signal loss and distortion.
Different circuitry designs produce different input and output impedance. Therefore, impedance compatibility needs to be considered before buying any piece of audio equipment.
However, while some manufacturers are willing to disclose the I/O impedance figures, others are not. Therefore unless the entire audio system is purchased from the same manufacturer within the same product line, it is most likely that impedance mismatching will exist.
As a result, the audio market is full of confusion, myth and plenty of ill-advised investments. Due to impedance mismatching, it is very likely that most audiophiles are only hearing approximately 70% of their systems full potential.
iPods and PCs can play back lossless audio files that are identical to CD quality. But when connected to a high-end system, they always sound flat and lifeless compared to even a cheap $200 CD player! There always seems to be a need to turn up the volume to achieve a similar level of sound. Why?
The reason is that the iPod and soundcards were designed to be compact, light weight and energy efficient. Their audio output stages are completely different to any home based audio equipment. The iPod is powered by a 5V battery and the soundcard runs on 12V, while, a home audio equipment will always run on 24V+. Therefore iPods and soundcards were never designed to synergize with any of the hi-end amplifiers, so one can only imagine the amount of impedance mismatch between them. Therefore, although that audio file is lossless, the play-back through an amplifier is certainly not!
Burson Audio AB-160 Audio Buffer Specifications
- Input impedance: 500 KOhms
- Frequency response: 1Hz (-0.3dB) to 35 kHz (-1dB)
- Signal to noise ratio: >120dB at 0dB gain
- Output impedance: line out 15 Ohms @ line level
- Power dissipation: >10W, internal, regulated power supply
- Maximum Output Voltage: 12VRMS
- Maximum Input Voltage: 6VRMS
- Inputs: 2 x gold plated RCA (line level input)
- Outputs: 1 x RCA line level output
- Weight: app. 5 kg
- Color: silver anodized aluminum
- Dimensions: 180 mm x 250 mm x 80 mm
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