Italian manufacturer Unison Research has unveiled prototypes of its Black Edition tube amplifiers. The current models, Triode 25 and Simply Italy, are anticipated to be released in a sleek black finish shortly. In addition to the new color, enhancements include the incorporation of superior components.
Unison Reasearch Triode 25 Black Edition: Integrated tube amplifier with analog and digital inputs
In addition to a high-gloss painted front panel and dark anodized metal surfaces, the Black Edition also differs from the previous version by a new graphic design with a changed typography. That’s just the look, but the power supply and signal path have also been changed. In this way, according to the designers, it was possible to both reduce distortion and improve performance.
The output tubes can be operated in triode or pentode mode. The amplifier delivers 30 watts per channel in triode mode and 50 watts in pentode mode. In addition to the three analogue inputs, the Black Edition comes with the new DAC3, which offers three digital inputs (USB, Toslink, S/PDIF coaxial).
Unison Simply Italy Black Edition: improved output transformer and new bias control
The Black Edition of the Unison Simply Italy offers new technical features. Electronic polarization makes it possible to optimally control the operating point of the KT-77 output tube over its entire lifespan, eliminating the need for autobias circuits, according to the manufacturer.
The output transformer has also been improved; a special winding technology is said to improve the sound. Further optimizations concern the power supply and ground routing, as with the Triode 25. The Unison Simply Italy Black Edition delivers 10 watts per channel.
The exact release date for the two new models remains uncertain. A source indicated a suggested retail price of $4,299 for the Unison Triode 25 Black Edition and $3,349 for the Unison Simply Italy Black Edition.