Electrocompaniet EC 5 Reference Class A Preamplifier

The Electrocompaniet EC 5 is the ultimate expression of analog preamplifier purity, engineered to deliver uncompromised signal integrity through groundbreaking proprietary technology. A decade in development, this reference-level preamp features a revolutionary fully electronic volume control system with no mechanical components, ensuring absolute transparency and sonic precision. Designed with a fully discrete, dual-mono Class A architecture and powered by independent supplies for each channel, the EC 5 delivers astonishing performance with ultra-low distortion and an exceptionally wide frequency response.

Blending Electrocompaniet’s iconic design with modern innovation, the EC 5 introduces a seamlessly integrated volume wheel and a stunning 7-inch color display. Built to serve as the perfect control center for high-end systems, including the AW300M and AW800M power amplifiers, this preamplifier disappears into the music—leaving nothing but pure, uncolored sound.

Specifications

Design: Fully discrete, dual-mono preamplifier
Operating Class: Pure Class A
Frequency Response: 0.5Hz – 450kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): 0.0002%
Volume Control: Proprietary electronic system with no relays or mechanical parts
Volume Steps: 900+ steps
Volume Range: -100dB to +20dB
Resolution: 0.1dB steps (-70dB to +20dB)
Signal Path: Fixed-length path through a single resistor
Input Selector: Proprietary electronic switching, fully balanced
Balanced Inputs: 4 per channel
Single-Ended Inputs: 2 per channel
Balanced Outputs: 2 per channel
Single-Ended Outputs: 1 per channel
Balanced Tape Output: 1 per channel
Single-Ended Tape Output: 1 per channel
Trigger Inputs: 2 x 12V
Trigger Outputs: 3 x 12V
IR Control: Selectable internal/external/disabled + 1 IR output
Connectivity: Ethernet (app control & firmware updates)
Transformers: 2 x 80VA toroidal transformers
Capacitance: 15,000µF per channel
Power Supply: Fully independent per channel with 3-stage filtering
Circuit Topology: AmpliWire high bandwidth with low negative feedback
Coupling: Direct coupled (no capacitors in signal path)
Load Capability: Drives 600 Ohm loads and long cable runs
Protection: Over-temperature and DC fault protection
Display: 7-inch color display

What It's Great At

Delivering ultra-transparent, noise-free analog signal reproduction
Precision volume control with unmatched resolution and consistency
Driving demanding power amplifiers and long cable runs effortlessly
Serving as a reference-grade control center for high-end audio systems
Maintaining signal purity with zero mechanical interference

Expanded Key Features List

Proprietary Electronic Volume Control: Eliminates mechanical components and relays, ensuring zero added noise or distortion with a constant signal path length.
900+ Step Precision Adjustment: Offers ultra-fine 0.1dB resolution for exact volume control across a wide dynamic range.
Dual-Mono Class A Architecture: Fully discrete design with independent channels delivers superior channel separation and sonic accuracy.
Advanced Power Supply Design: Dual 80VA toroidal transformers with 15,000µF capacitance per channel provide clean, stable power under all conditions.
Fully Balanced Signal Path: Maintains signal integrity from input to output with zero interference or degradation.
AmpliWire Topology: High open-loop bandwidth and low negative feedback ensure fast, accurate signal reproduction.
Direct-Coupled Circuitry: Eliminates capacitors in the signal path for maximum transparency and detail retrieval.
Robust Output Stage: Easily drives 600 Ohm loads and long interconnects without signal loss.
Advanced Protection Systems: Built-in over-temperature and DC fault protection ensures long-term reliability.
Modern Control Interface: Features a 7-inch display, Ethernet connectivity, and integrated volume wheel for intuitive operation.

FAQ Section

Q: What makes the EC 5 volume control unique?
A: It uses a fully electronic, relay-free design with a fixed signal path, eliminating noise and distortion while offering over 900 ultra-precise adjustment steps.

Q: Is the EC 5 fully balanced?
A: Yes, the entire signal path is fully balanced from input to output, ensuring maximum signal integrity and noise rejection.

Q: Does the EC 5 operate in Class A?
A: Yes, the preamplifier operates entirely in pure Class A for the highest level of sonic performance.

Q: How is the power supply designed?
A: It features dual 80VA toroidal transformers with fully independent supplies per channel and multi-stage noise filtering.

Q: Can it drive demanding amplifiers and long cables?
A: Yes, its robust output stage is designed to easily handle 600 Ohm loads and long cable runs without degradation.

Q: Does the EC 5 include digital control features?
A: Yes, it includes Ethernet connectivity for app control and firmware updates, along with IR and trigger integration.

Q: What kind of protection systems are included?
A: The EC 5 includes over-temperature protection and DC fault protection for safe and reliable operation.

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Electrocompaniet EC 5 Reference Class A Preamplifier