Audio Analogue ABsolute Preamplifier, Black

The Audio Analogue ABsolute Preamplifier is a fully balanced line preamplifier that selects sources, controls the level via a relay-switched resistor network, and passes the signal on to a separate power amplifier. This version is black. It's built strictly in dual mono and without global negative feedback — the circuit is meant to add nothing to the signal, not even pleasantries.

Why the ABsolute Preamplifier?

A preamp is the least conspicuous part of a chain and, at the same time, the one where the most can be lost. The ABsolute Preamplifier therefore relies on differential signal routing from input to output, relays instead of semiconductor switches for input selection, and an inductively filtered power supply with two shielded, resin-potted transformers. In numbers: 102.3 dB signal-to-noise ratio A-weighted, and a frequency response reaching up to 200 kHz.

What you hear

First of all: nothing. That's exactly the point. The background is so quiet that faint details no longer disappear into the noise floor, and the soundstage stays organised even at low levels. Via the balanced outputs the signal stays clean even over longer cable runs — handy when the power amps sit right by the speakers.

Who is the ABsolute Preamplifier for?

For anyone building a high-end separate preamp/power-amp chain who values balanced cabling. Plainly put: if you want everything in one box, you're better served with an integrated amplifier — here you absolutely need a power amp to go with it. Streaming, a DAC, a phono input and a headphone output are missing, and deliberately so.

Our verdict

The ABsolute Preamplifier is the quiet control centre of a serious system: neutral, low-noise, cleanly built. Paired with the ABsolute power amps it forms a matched ensemble, but it works just as well with other brands. Which combination suits your room is something we're happy to discuss — HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, +41 44 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical specifications

• Device type: fully balanced line preamplifier, dual mono, without global negative feedback
• Gain: 5.58 dB unbalanced / 11.62 dB balanced
• Inputs: 3× RCA stereo (unbalanced), 2× XLR stereo (balanced)
• Outputs: 2× RCA stereo, 2× XLR stereo
• Output level: adjustable via the volume control
• Headphone output: not present
• Volume control: relay-switched resistor network
• Input selection: via relays
• Input impedance: 47 kΩ
• Frequency response (−0.5 dB): up to 200 kHz
• Noise at the balanced output: 20.4 µV (20 Hz – 80 kHz), 7.7 µV (A-weighted)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 93.8 dB (20 Hz – 80 kHz) / 98.3 dB (20 Hz – 22 kHz) / 102.3 dB (A-weighted)
• Power supply: inductively filtered, two transformers of roughly 50 W each, electrostatically and magnetically shielded, resin-potted
• Standby consumption (230 V): 0.7 W
• Finish: black chassis
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 480 × 140 × 385 mm
• Weight: 22 kg
• Included: RC10000 remote control, Airtech mains cable, trigger cable, 2× AAA batteries, manual and warranty card

Frequently asked questions

How many devices can I connect to the ABsolute Preamplifier?

Five line sources: three unbalanced RCA stereo inputs and two balanced XLR stereo inputs. On the output side, two RCA and two XLR pairs are available, so you can even feed two power amps or an active subwoofer in parallel. Input selection runs via relays rather than semiconductor switches, which keeps distortion low.

Does the ABsolute Preamplifier have a headphone output?

No, there's no headphone output. The ABsolute Preamplifier is consistently designed to drive a power amplifier. For headphones you need a separate headphone amplifier, which you can run from one of the two output pairs. Which one suits your setup is something we're happy to discuss with you.

What does "without global negative feedback" mean?

The circuit doesn't feed any output signal back to the input to correct errors. Instead, every stage has to work cleanly on its own, which demands considerably more components. Proponents value the more natural time behaviour this gives. In measurement terms, the preamplifier still stays very quiet, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 102.3 dB.

Does the preamplifier also suit power amps from other manufacturers?

Yes. With balanced and unbalanced outputs it can be connected to practically any high-quality power amp; it's simply matched with particular precision to the ABsolute power amps. What matters is the power amp's input sensitivity and impedance — tell us your model and we'll check the combination.

Why buy the ABsolute Preamplifier from HD Zürisee?

Because a separate preamp/power-amp chain needs careful matching, and that's exactly what we help with: the right power amp, sensible cabling, a realistic assessment for your room. Our specialist team in Wädenswil advises you personally, and our own technician handles installation and service. Reach us by phone, WhatsApp or email — we respond quickly.

Pairs well with

Without a power amp, it stays silent: find the selection under All Amplifiers, matching Speakers right next to it, sources at All Sources, and the rest of the range in the Audio Analogue world.