Alpha One
STREAMING INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
Alpha One is the result of the experience gained during the development of our Reference line and represents a synthesis of B.audio’s technological know-how. The goal was both simple and demanding: combine a cutting-edge DAC together with a high-end passively cooled dual-mono amplifier in a single enclosure. Our proprietary EX networking module is also included, offering acoustic correction and advanced streaming capabilities.
State-of-the-art digital playback
The B.audio Alpha One benefits from B.audio’s patented SJR « Source Jitter Removal » technology. By completely eliminating the jitter from any digital source, it allows the conversion circuits to work optimally, ensuring unprecedented digital-to-analog conversion quality, regardless of the digital input format. The result is a realistic, rich and lively sound. Combined with the embedded EX network module, this is the key to an unparalleled streaming music experience.
Extended bandwidth preamplification
The preamp stage of the Alpha One relies on a fully symmetrical construction, featuring a relay driven resistor network volume control for a perfect balance between the left and right channels. No coupling capacitor is mounted in the Alpha One. Operating outside the signal path, multi-pole servo circuits are used to provide a constant continuous reference to the active elements of the circuit. The integrity of the audio signal is thus fully preserved, ensuring a high level of transparency together with an extreme bandwidth extension, refined highs and extremely deep bass.
Dual-mono internal construction
The amplifier stage of the Alpha One is directly derived from our reference power amplifiers. Its in-house refined topology was designed to drastically reduce dynamic distortion. Optimizing the use of local feedback at the most critical stages, it benefits from the advantages of a class AB output stage while maintaining a perfect linearity of operation. Its dual mono design features comfortable power ratings together with a high current reserve, allowing it to drive the most demanding loudspeakers with powerful bass handling.
Remote control
Each Alpha One comes with a custom-made remote control made of massive aluminium.
REVIEWS
The Absolute Sound
#350 (July – August 2024)
Neil Gauder: “I know that I’ll never forget the time I spent with Alpha One. Enthusiastically recommended”
Read the review online: https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/b-audio-alpha-integrated-amplifier/
Image Hifi
#177 (May – June 2024)
“The Alpha One is far more than a downsizing of its big brothers. It delivers a performance of its own that is perfectly consistent in both digital and analog terms”
Read the full review (English translation): Alpha_One_Review_Image_Hifi.pdf
Hi-Fi Voice
April 25, 2024
“Alpha One puts the most weight on overall musicality, on the ability to make you forget the technical side of things and immerse yourself in the listening experience”
Editor’s recommendation award
Hi-Fi+
#230 (April 2024)
“The DAC is particularly good […] and the amplifier is also exceptional.”
Sonic Flare
“A slice of superb sound, from a French all in one integrated amplifier. B Audio Alpha One
Vumètre
#50 anniversary issue (November – December 2023)
“(B.audio) is striking again with its first all-in-one, Alpha One, and it’s hard to find a competitor as pure and refined in this price range.”
“Remarquable” award
SPECIFICATIONS
GENERAL | |
Power supply | Factory set: 220-230 V or 100-115 V, 50-60 Hz |
Dimensions | 450 x 395 x 102 mm |
Weight | 15.5 kg |
Output power | 120 W under 8 ohm 200 W under 4 ohm |
Bandwidth | > 200 kHz |
THD | < 0.001% (1-100 W, 8 ohm) |
DIGITAL SECTION | |
D/A Conversion | Multibit sigma-delta |
DAC Clock management | Patented SJR technology |
Streaming protocols | UPnP, MPD, LMS, NAA, Roon, Airplay Gapless playback Access to streaming services (Qobuz, Tidal, Spotify, …) via compatible iOS and Android applications |
Integrated music server | UPnP / Openhome |
Acoustic correction | 64-bit DSP, 8x parametric filters with automatic gain adjustment |
Inputs | 1x SPDIF (PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz) 2x Toslink (PCM up to 24-bit / 96 kHz) 1x AES/EBU (PCM up to 24-bit / 192 kHz) 1x USB type B (PCM up to 384 kHz / DXD / DoP / native DSD up to DSD256) 1x RJ45 (PCM up to 384 kHz / DXD / DoP / native DSD up to DSD256) 1x USB DATA (to connect a storage media / SSD disk) |
PRE-AMPLIFICATION | |
Volume control | Analog, via switched resistor network, -80 to +0 dB, 64 steps |
Construction | 100% balanced |
Inputs | 1x XLR (balanced) 2x RCA (unbalanced), one of which configurable as bypass (Home Theater use) |
Input impedance | 47 kohm |
Pre-out | 1x XLR (balanced) |
Output impedance | 100 ohm |
AMPLIFICATION | |
Construction | Dual-mono, class AB, passive cooling (fanless) |
Output stage | 2 pairs of high current bipolar transistors |
Speaker connectors | Universal, compatible with forks, bare cables and banana plugs |