Obviously with much more expensive Sonnet Morpheus DAC the end result was still better, but it was actually surprising how well the the entire EarMen stack (with Tradutto and Staccato as a digital stream source) sounded, especially using the balanced connection. And, when talking about connections, let’s mention that CH-Amp can also act a as a fully analogue and balanced preamplifier. And in this role it also delivers – it keeps it discreet yet open character. What’s even more interesting is the fact that when connected to the most active speakers in its price category its resolution will in reality be much higher that on those speakers, simply because most of them will use class D amplification married with some ADC, DSP and DAC processing. So, basically, running a desktop system with CH-Amps as a preamp it is highly unlikely that we will encounter a situation where it will impede the music flow in any way. I would even recommend that in such a scenario looking at some more serious active monitors with properly executed fully analogue amplification would be fully justified. Here models like ATC SCM12Pro or Unity Audio Super Rock come to mind.
EarMen CH-AMP conclusion – solid-state done right
I witfully used the term “solid-state” in the title of this conclusion, since in this one particular case it is interesting to look at the things in a broader scope when wrapping up the review of the flagship headphone amplifier from EarMen. As I stated in the beginning, the people behind it have a lot of successful hi-end tube amplifiers in their portfolio. Just look at the Headonia, Nirvana or HA-2SF for example. Yet here we have a completely different animal, much smaller, completely different looking, and on top of that – made entirely using the solid-state technology.
On top of that, even in the crowded market of many amplifiers that you can attach your cans to in this price category – it is unique. Not only because of a fresh and clever approach to design and functionality, nor its understated but at the same time sleek looks. But simply because of the fact that what’s actually the most appealing here is the sound. This is one of those amplifiers that grows on you the more you listen to it. Its main strength lies not in having one, or two certain aspects of the reproduction skyrocketed to the stratospheric levels.
Rather, it approaches matters in much more complete and, I would say – accomplished way. This leads me to another point: CH-Amp is also a clear example that you can use solid-state technology and still get both resolution and texture without resorting to some strange manipulations of the sound. This is quite an achievement, especially when you consider that for its price you also get a dedicated linear power supply unit that can also feed other elements of EarMen Stack, like Tradutto DAC or Staccato Streamer. As for the entire stack of components from the Serbian company – we will get to it soon. But in the meantime – the CH-Amp not only deserves full recommendation, but is actually here to stay.
Adam Kiryszewski