A groundbreaking innovation-Triode/JFET dual mode amplifier

For the first time, a portable amplifier is equipped with both electron tube and solid-state JFET as major gain devices. Instead of remove and replace process, either device is activated through a simple toggle switch and into action immediately. It is achieved through an innovative circuit topology to embed both devices exactly in the same location of signal path. When switching between JFET and Tube, it is easy to tell the difference between the two. Tube brings a smoother and emotional touch in the music, while JFET is more pronounced and powerful in each note. It is all up to user’s taste and scenario to choose from. And Chimera is named after its dual (tube and JFET) characteristics in one chassis.

JFET as gain device

JFET is well known for its high resemblance to pentode electron tube both are voltage controlled gain device and with similar transfer curve. Though pentode is not as beloved as triode by audiophiles. It is actually a more linear device that introduces less distortion in amplification. 

Figure 2 PENTODE

JFET mode may not sounds as sensational as tube mode in the beginning. It still presents a warm and smooth sound in a more straightforward characteristics, which may be more appropriate in certain music genre. Audiophiles are encouraged to try JFET more often to dig out its potential for diversified music selections.

High quality and well selected components

All passive components are selected for best audio quality. The extensive application of MELF resistors from Vishay in signal path is high power SMT counterpart of through-hole resistor for their smooth and low noise characteristics. The main power supply filtering capacity is directly inherited from Sassy GT for proven performance. The tube’s filament supply is bypassed with OSCON™ cap for extensive frequency response comparable to film cap while has electrolytic capacity. The output stage is supported by multiple organic polymer capacitors right next to supply pins. This technique reinforces the stability of power under stressful music passage at output stage. The result is uncompromised sound image and frequency response at both ends all the time.

The rigid chassis is made of solid aluminum and crafted to extreme precision with CNC machinery. Only high quality material and stainless screws are used in its assembly without compromise.

Integrated Hi-Res USB DAC

A high performance USB DAC is optional in Chimera for users’ convenience. Although there are plenty of high quality DAP and standalone DAC to choose from, users still expect to use PC or mobile as music source without compromise on quality of digital conversion from time to time. And Chimera D is the choice. ESS9028 is the core of DAC module and USB receiver is selected for widest compatibility and low power consumption. The USB DAC is plug and play with iOS™ and Android™ devices with no need of device driver. This combo delivers solid performance electrically with less than 0.0004% THD+N and surprising spacious sound. 

Quieter, Purer, Greener and yet more Powerful

The improvement of Chimera is far more than functional change. The new output structure and physical implementation delivers a much lower noise floor. All the switches are outside signal path to eliminate potential downgrade on signal quality and soft switching scheme is adopted to reduce switching noise. The power efficiency is also improved by 30% for much less consumption in amplifier alone. The power reservoir is enhanced to same level as Sassy GT for most demanding music passage. And a new output stage is capable of dealing with heaviest load. Yet the phenomenal sound quality is well preserved without compromise.

An amplifier redefines portability for both headphone and earphone

Everyone familiar with Phatlab shall easily tell the origin of Chimera from Sassy. Chimera does inherit all the advantages of Sassy GT and beyond. By adopting a new architecture, Chimera is capable of delivering 500 mA in each channel with output impedance less than 0.1 ohm and bandwidth beyond 100 kHz. Chimera can serve IEMs with complex drivers and crossover combination all the way up to planar headphones whopping over thousands of mW. Chimera is one of a kind amplifier enabling the mobility of all kinds of phones.

A milestone in portable amplifier

Even without increasing battery capacity, the Chimera has gain 1.5 times of operating hours over Sassy GT. We are proud to say Chimera has surpassed its predecessors in every aspect with comprehensive design and broadest compatibility.

Specification (Amplifier)