ASTOR AST-2000VIP Vacuum tube stereo preamplifier

About AST-XP2000VIP

AST-XP2000VIP isASTORThis is a high-end vacuum tube preamplifier made by. Equipped with PHONO, CD, and LINE inputs, it is designed as a full-fledged control amplifier that supports a wide range of applications from analog playback to line sources.

The vacuum tubes used are three 6SL7GT. new typeHigh-Fidelity- By adopting a high-efficiency circuit and using a cathode follower type for the third stage, we aim to achieve both the texture unique to vacuum tubes and the driving force and stability required for a preamplifier.

Full-fledged preamplifier with PHONO input

Equipped with inputs PHONO, CD, LINE1, LINE2. Mainly for record playback, it also supports systems that combine multiple line sources such as CD players, DACs, and tuners.

It has three output systems: OUTPUT1, OUTPUT2, and OUTPUT3, and in addition to connecting to the main power amplifier, it has a flexible configuration that is easy to use for subsystems, recording systems, and switching between multiple amplifiers.

Density and expressiveness typical of vacuum tubes with 6SL7GT

The 6SL7GT is a dual triode tube that has been used in audio circuits for a long time. The AST-XP2000VIP uses three of these 6SL7GTs, aiming for reproduction that takes advantage of the thickness, smoothness, and density of sound unique to vacuum tubes.

This is a preamplifier that does not only make the sound excessively soft, but also brings out the core of the sound image, the realism of the voice, and the texture of the analog sound source. When playing records, the shadows and shadows of the musicholographic soundstageThe line input adds a natural texture unique to a vacuum tube preamp.

ASTORoriginal trance

In the transformer,ASTORUses original AST-70PK and ST-5H-60M. The power supply section and transformer are important elements that support the foundation of the sound in a vacuum tube amplifier, and in this unit they are also emphasized as parts that are related to the stability of the sound, the sense of power, and the quietness of the background.

By incorporating not only the circuit, but also the power supply, housing, terminals, and attenuator, the configuration brings out the sense of density and stable expressive power of a vacuum tube preamplifier.

21 contact resistance attenuator

A 21-contact resistance attenuator is used for volume adjustment. Unlike general volume controls, the resistance value is switched for each contact, allowing stable volume adjustment while maintaining the quality of the signal path.

Input impedance is A type 100kΩ. It has an easy-to-use configuration as a vacuum tube preamp, and can be used in combination with a variety of source equipment.

304 stainless steel mirror finish chassis

The chassis is made of 1.5mm thick 304 stainless steel with a mirror finish. We aim to create a structure that not only looks beautiful, but also has enough rigidity and mass to prevent unnecessary vibrations from being transmitted to the internal circuits and vacuum tubes.

1.5mm thick 304 stainless steel is also used for the parts mounting middle plate. Not only the exterior but also the internal structure has been well-built, and the weight of 15.5kg shows that it is an extremely robust preamplifier.

Special sale items while supplies last

ASTORDue to the current situation where it is difficult to continue the brand, this machine will be a special sale item while supplies last. The specifications are only 100V specifications for Japan.

There is no manufacturer warranty or manufacturer repair support. Therefore, we offer this product as a special sale item with a six-month warranty and different conditions than regular sales.

ASTORThe amplifier is a product with a strong presence due to its robust housing, vacuum tube circuit, and unique sound creation. The AST-XP2000VIP is a valuable model for those looking for a preamplifier of the same brand, as opportunities to obtain it will be limited in the future.

Sound Quality Trend from Design Perspective

The AST-XP2000VIP, as a tube preamplifier with a PHONO input, is particularly well-suited for systems that prioritize analog playback. With a configuration using three 6SL7GT tubes, it can be expected to produce a sound with thickness, realistic vocal presence, and detailed instrument shading.

The 3rd stage cathode follower circuit is designed to maintain the characteristic tube sound while providing stable drive to the following power amplifier. The focus is on not only the tone but also the driving capability and ease of use as a preamplifier.

The 21-step resistive attenuator is an important element for adjusting volume while preserving signal quality. In a preamplifier handling small signals, the quality of the volume section can significantly affect transparency and imaging, making it one of the key points supporting this unit's sound quality.

ASTORThe original transformer and heavy 304 stainless steel chassis are critical components in stabilizing the foundation of the sound. By adding a solid base and quietness to the rich expression characteristic of tube amplifiers, it also contributes to stable sound imaging and clear background presence.

The AST-XP2000VIP is not a multifunction preamplifier packed with the latest features. Centered on basic inputs including PHONO, three output systems, tube circuits, and a robust chassis, it is a high-end preamplifier designed to enjoy analog sources richly and with a sense of density.