The HiFi Rose RA280 boasts an exterior design that complements any modern listening space and is more minimalist than the striking RA180. Its sturdy aluminium chassis ensures a solid build that can withstand the test of time while protecting the sensitive electronic circuitry inside from surrounding interference. The top-mounted vents add character to the design while allowing for heat dissipation from within.
At the heart of the RA280 is HiFi Rose's Class AD Amplifier technology (Advanced D), which provides higher efficiency, higher output, and improved noise and distortion measurements than traditional Class AB designs. Unlike many Class D designs in the past, the company states that RA280's state-of-the-art Class AD amplifier uses innovative new materials to deliver a high-speed, perfectly accurate amplification stage with almost no dead time, allowing it to perform far more naturally, "like a pure analogue amplifier."
With separate 250W (4Ω and 8Ω) amplifier modules per channel, the RA280 delivers a total system power of 500W, making it a true powerhouse. The LC filter helps support the amplifier's excellent claimed 10 Hz – 66 kHz (-1 dB) frequency response by offering -1dB attenuation in the frequency band up to 65kHz and -3dB attenuation in the 85kHz range.
We're told this dramatically reduces carrier noise caused by Class D amplifiers' inherent switching and provides more precise and cleaner sound quality (S/N Balanced/ Unbalanced: 109dB) throughout the frequency range.
The RA280 also boasts a variety of connectivity options, including one balanced and three unbalanced inputs alongside the built-in MM phono stage.
Meanwhile, the front panel offers Bass and Treble tone controls, allowing you to adjust the flat frequency response at 100Hz and 10kHz, respectively, with ±15dB gain for a fully tailored sound. Alongside the speaker output terminals, there is support for subwoofer output, trigger connections, and a grounding post.
Equipped with a power supply first developed for the flagship RA180 amplifier, the RA280 performs optimally in every situation. The Silicon Carbide FET technology employed in the power supply provides high output efficiently with low heat generation, responding well to power delivery fluctuations with its 2.5kW class PFC circuit and high-capacity condenser.
With its wide array of features, technologies, and connectivity options, the RA280 seems poised to live up to the expectations already set by its siblings.
The HiFi Rose RA280 is available in black or silver finishes with an SRP of £2,999.
Visit HiFi Rose for more information
Posted in: Hi-Fi
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