The iPod, once more in combination with the valve technology

Aug 21, 2007 10:23 GMT  ·  By
A superb gift: the Dice iTPA-220 valve iPod amplifier sells for $300
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   A superb gift: the Dice iTPA-220 valve iPod amplifier sells for $300

If you've ever owned a serious audio device running on vacuum tubes then you should be acquainted to what the valve sound is: sheer warmth and natural harmonics you will never get from another piece of audio gear, no matter how many emulation DSP engines you might be using. The sound of the tube gear is simply so different to anything there is, that it's really no wonder why audiophiles and sound enthusiasts are choosing tube gear as their favorite equipment.

Now, what do we usually get when crossing the vacuum tube technology with the iPod world? Of course, the answer is "a tube-powered iPod docking station". This time the spotlights are on Dice Electronics and their new iTPA-220 iPod amplifier and speaker system.

This new equipment comprises an iPod dock with a stereo vacuum tube preamplifier that warms up the sound and gives it the specific character and two active loudspeakers that can pump a hefty 2 x 20W RMS power that will rock your room pretty good.

The Dice iTPA-220 also supports video-capable iPods and has a separate video signal output; at the same time, it allows for a third-party auxiliary audio signal input, being thus usable as a usual amplifier for your other music sources. Even more, this most nifty audio gear sports a remote control with extended functions: not only can you work on the volume, but command the docked iPod as well, with play/pause, next/previous and mute commands.

The Dice iTPA-220's loudspeakers sport a wide dynamic range as they are loaded with 4" woofers and 1" tweeters and the wooden cabinets sport bass reflex venting ports for a more rolling, enhanced bass. With a 40-18,000Hz range, you have just the right sound with your preferred music. The 6N3 tubes add the classic "valve sound" with the 2nd order distortions making it smooth and warm while the solid state amping in the speakers add the brawn to get you rocking in no time. The final amplifier stage runs in 4 Ohms.

Now, the best thing of all: the Dice iTPA-220 valve iPod amplifier sells for $299 only, thus making an absolutely great gift for sound enthusiasts.

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A superb gift: the Dice iTPA-220 valve iPod amplifier sells for $300
Tubes, the critical sound of excellenceActive speakers, 2 x 20W
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