Electrocompaniet EC5 Preamplifier Debuts in Munich

The EC 5 preamplifier brings a fresh take on Electrocompaniet's design language and an end goal that "redefines signal integrity through groundbreaking proprietary technology."

Literally central to the Norwegian electronics specialist's new design is the EC 5's volume control. Behind the large ball-bearing volume control wheel integrated into the unit's acrylic front is a purely electronic construction governed by parallel resistor networks controlled by custom switches. It is said to mitigate any compromise to your audio, such as found with mechanical components or relays. We are told that the brand's approach to volume control results in a constant signal path regardless of volume level, preserving integrity through over 900 steps of 0.1dB resolution across a –100dB to +20dB range.

The EC 5 operates entirely in pure Class A and features a fully discrete, dual-mono topology. Each channel is driven by an independent power supply, incorporating 80VA toroidal transformers and 15,000μF of storage capacitance per channel. This robust power architecture is designed to maintain performance under any load, contributing to the EC 5's ultra-low distortion levels and a quoted 0.5Hz-450kHz frequency response.

The EC 5 utilises Electrocompaniet's high bandwidth, high slew-rate AmpliWire topology, using fully discrete components with no signal-path capacitors. The manufacturer says its circuit design ensures low negative feedback and can drive 600-Ohm loads and long cable runs without compromise. The circuitry is protected by internal temperature monitoring and DC fault safeguards at the output. Furthermore, the internal architecture separates the analogue circuitry from the power and control sections for enhanced isolation and stability.

The front panel features Electrocompaniet's signature acrylic fascia, which hosts the aforementioned volume dial alongside a 7-inch colour IPS display. The EC 5's display supports source naming, level matching, and visual mains voltage monitoring.

Around the rear, inputs and outputs are comprehensive, with four balanced and two single-ended inputs per channel. Outputs include single-ended and two balanced ports alongside dedicated tape/record outputs in balanced and single-ended flavours. Meanwhile, a trio of 12V trigger outputs and an IR output are included for complete system integration. The unit also supports Ethernet-based app control and firmware updates.

At the Munich show, Electrocompaniet showcased its products with fellow Norwegian brand Ø Audio, which presented its impressive Verdande speakers (€35,000) bolstered by the speaker brand's impressive Varg bass system, all of which was powered by four of Electrocompaniet's AW800 M amps. We were impressed by the AW300 Ms when we reviewed them, so you can imagine how great this room sounded.

We are awaiting confirmed details on the pricing of the EC 5, but we expect availability to be around September/October time.

Visit Electrocompaniet for more information