System Enhancement > Burson AB-160 Audio Buffer

Impedance mismatching, your audio system may have it.
What is it?

Impedance mismatching refers to a situation where the various audio gears are not fully synergised. This usually occurs between the source (CD player, Dac, Ipod) and the rest of the audio setup. When the audio system is not fully synergised, it is not fully optimised, resulting in signal loss and distortion.




Mismatching in Hi End Audio

Different circuitry designs produce different input and output impedance. Therefore, impedance compatibility needs to be considered before buying any piece of audio equipment.



However, while some manufacturers are willing to disclose the I/O impedance figures, others are not. Therefore unless the entire audio system is purchased from the same manufacturer within the same product line, it is most likely that impedance mismatching will exist.



As a result, the audio market is full of confusion, myth and plenty of ill-advised investments. Due to impedance mismatching, it is very likely that most audiophiles are only hearing approximately 70% of their systems full potential.



Mismatching in IPod & PC Audio (the file format may be lossless but is the playback lossless?)

Ipods and PCs can play back lossless audio files that are identical to CD quality. But when connected to a high-end system, they always sound flat and lifeless compared to even a cheap $200 CD player! There always seems to be a need to turn up the volume to achieve a similar level of sound. . Why?



The reason is that the Ipod and soundcards were designed to be compact, light weight and energy efficient. Their audio output stages are completely different to any home based audio equipment. The Ipod is powered by a 5V battery and the soundcard runs on 12V, while, a home audio equipment will always run on 24V+. Therefore Ipods and soundcards were never designed to synergise with any of the hi-end amplifiers, so one can only imagine the amount of impedance mismatch between them.



Therefore, although that audio file is lossless, the play-back through an amplifier is certainly not!



The Solution

The Burson Audio Buffer is designed to remove any impedance mismatch by acting as an isolation platform between any of the source components e.g.(CD, DVD, SACD player, Phono preamp, PC sound card or even an IPod) and downstream amplification (preamp, intergraded amp, etc). The Burson Audio Buffer will increase signal transmission efficiency between all components, unlocking the potential of any system.

Specifications

Output Noise Level : 0.015MV (nil input)

Maximum Output Voltage :12VRMS

Maximum Input Voltage: 6VRMS

SN:120DB

Frequency Response :0-220KHZ(-3DB)

Gain: 3-6dB selectable (great for passive preamp)

Net Weight: 5.5 kg

Dimensions (180mm X 250mm X 80mm)



Other Features:

• Dual Mono design for maximum noise separation

• Extreme short signal path less than 6cm on quality PCB

• High Quality components (Elna Audio graded caps, carefully matched high quality audio transistors, DALE military graded resistors...) with hand soldering












Prices:

AB-160 RCA $489.00
AB-160 XLR $545.00