C1000 Preamplifier
BRINGS ANY KIND OF MUSIC TO LIFE
The Artistic Intent, Intact - made possible by an uncompromising design philosophy, meticulous engineering, hand-selected materials and components.
PURITY
TAD Labs has developed a pre-amplifier version of a single-stage current feedback amplifier originally designed for our Reference Series of hi-fi audio components, and incorporated it into the TAD C1000's low-profile amplifier section. The minimal use of amplification elements enables the TAD C1000 to faithfully reproduce every musical nuance. In addition, to achieve the highest level of signal complementarity, we tested the performance characteristics of each first-stage FET device and selected matching pairs of positive and negative elements for the flat amplifier section of the TAD C1000. This meticulous attention to detail has elevated the stability of the preamplifier circuit to a higher level.
SYMMETRY
The circuit pattern and components are symmetrically arranged on the audio motherboard of the preamplifier circuit to eliminate even the slightest amplification errors between positive and negative signals, as well as between left and right channels. The quest for perfect symmetry does not end there. We even went so far as to symmetrically design two power transformers, the chassis construction and the rear-panel jacks to achieve optimum weight and vibration balance.
ELEGANCE
The volume knob has an exquisite look and feel to it. It is mounted on high precision ball bearings to ensure the exceptionally smooth and effortless rotation you expect from TAD hi-fi audio components. The centre-mounted design of the volume knob signifies the symmetrical layout of the internal circuitry. The TAD C1000 shares a common design language with other Evolution Series products.
EXCELLENCE
The TAD C1000's impeccable craftsmanship is exemplified by its high-output toroidal power transformer. The transformer's internal coil is connected directly to the power supply circuit, making it more responsive to dynamic changes in the music signal. In addition, the audio and control circuits are each powered by a dedicated transformer to eliminate interference between them. Each component has been carefully selected and arranged within the TAD C1000 after being subjected to a series of demanding tests and listening evaluations to validate its performance specifications.
STABILITY
The heavy, rigid body of the TAD C1000 is supported by a combination of spike-shaped feet made of chrome molybdenum steel and matching spike holders made of special steel that are self-adjusting in height. By minimising contact with the surface on which the TAD C1000 sits, external vibrations are prevented from passing through the feet and adversely affecting the circuits and parts inside the case. This sophisticated vibration control design results in greater information density, dynamics and clarity in music reproduction.
Made in Japan
years of experience
Reports & Reviews
"The frequency balance was more faithful to the source than I have ever experienced in my home listening room, and the soundstage was reproduced with an unusually sharp and three-dimensional feel."
"The visceral, fast transient attacks, deep authoritative bass that is still lightning quick and punchy, and the clarity of the midrange transcends neutral becoming musical purity. TAD squeezes the last micro drops of essence from the recordings in a compelling way. [...] The TAD C1000 + friends is the closest gear that I’ve heard where I felt like I was looking into the studio. If you want a transcendental experience you owe it to yourself to give it a listen. If you want purity of music, TAD is your endgame."
Technical data
| Model | TAD C1000 Preamplifier |
|---|---|
| Input connectors | 4x balanced, 2x unbalanced |
| Output connectors | 2x balanced, 2x unbalanced |
| Rated output voltage | balanced 1.6 V, unbalanced 0.8 V |
| Maximum output voltage | balanced 16 Vrms, unbalanced 8 Vrms |
| Rated distortion (T.H.D.) | 0.003% |
| IHF S/N Ratio | 120 dB |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz to 100 kHz, -1dB |
| Gain | 12 dB |
| Analog maximum permissible input voltage (-40 dB) | balanced 14 V, unbalanced 7 V |
| Power requirements | AC 220 V to 240 V, 50 Hz/60 Hz (Europe/Asia) |
| Power consumption | 26 W |
| Power consumption during standby | 0.5W or less |
| Dimensions | 440 mm (W) x 150 mm (H) x 424 mm (D) |
| Weight | 17 kg / 37.4 lb |