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In addition, the NHB-18NS features full modular possibilities, including future use of multi-amping by using darT to Zeel 50-ohm links. Some key features are (per channel):
* 6 inputs, whether phono, RCA/BNC or balanced XLR. As standard, the NHB-18NS is delivered with 1 phono MM/MC input,1 full floating XLR input and 4 RCA/BNC 50 ohm Zeel inputs.
* 1 XLR full floating output.
* 3 BNC 50 ohm darT outputs, ready for tri-amping, with optional built-in passive filters.
* 1 RCA output.
* 1 RCA record output (fixed level).
The darTZeel NHB-18NS is the logical partner to the now acclaimed NHB-108 model one power amplifier. In keeping with the very same philosophy, darTZeel uses dedicated circuits reduced to their most basic form. Here again, there is no application of any overall negative feedback. The delicate, small audio signal amplified by the NHB-18NS only passes through 8 silicon junctions from input to output, including the 13dB full discrete gain stage. For the phono stage, we only add 3 junctions, for a maximum additional boost of 60 dB (73 dB in total).
Instead of offering a preamplifier based on the same approach as that of our competitors, we at darTZeel chose to think differently, offering for the first time in the world what previously seemed impossible:
No contact or switches or relay of any kind for the selection of the sources. This revolutionary feature brings a new level of transparency. Instead of routing the signal through a selector box, each input has its own dedicated gain stage, which is enabled or disabled according to the user's choice. The signal is then directly routed to the volume control module. A whole new volume control module, which completely avoids the use of any potentiometer, stepped attenuator or analog switch array in the signal path. The sound signal is attenuated in a fully passive way, within a continuous range of close to 90 dB, in full analog mode, without the use of any VCA or other active component.
Both of these breakthroughs constitute a big step in the right direction: no harm to the signal. As mentioned above, this new design is patent pending. As soon as the patents are confirmed, darTZeel will be pleased to describe in detail how such signal treatment is possible.
The NHB-18NS is not only new in these aspects. We have also included all the features already implemented in our now famous NHB-108 model one, as follows:
* Only small local negative feedback at the inputs.
* One small, symmetrical, local negative feedback in the voltage gain stages.
* Open loop, free of all negative feedback for the output stages.
Power supply
The darTZeel NHB-18NS is an authentic dual mono preamplifier, from input to output, with separate grounds for left and right channels.
Each channel is battery powered by its own battery bank, offering 10 to 12 hours of listening pleasure before a charge is needed.
A very sophisticated, regulated and dedicated supply for every input and output is provided, ensuring the lowest power supply impedance possible.
