Unison Research
Unison Research S6 Black Edition – Tube Integrated Amplifier
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The Unison S6 Black Edition is a premium tube integrated amplifier that combines technological innovation and artisanal design. Featuring Genalex Gold Lion KT77 tubes , the removal of the Auto-Bias system, and independent power supplies for each tube, it delivers natural, dynamic, and detailed sound. The elegant design and premium finishes make the S6 Black Edition a one-of-a-kind piece for high-fidelity enthusiasts.
The foundation of the Unison S6 Black Edition's exceptional sound is the exclusive use of Genalex Gold Lion tubes. The Gold Lion tradition dates back to the 1950s, when only the finest tubes produced by M&O Valve Company could bear this legendary seal. Every Genalex Gold Lion tube is hand-selected and tested to ensure maximum reliability and top-notch sonic performance.
The S6 Black Edition's preamplifier uses ECC83 and ECC82 tubes. Known for their detailed sound and ability to create a wide soundstage, these tubes were chosen for their linearity and precise sound reproduction. The power stages, however, use KT77 tubes instead of the more common EL34 tubes . This choice is no coincidence: the KT77 was developed as a replacement for the EL34, but with a more linear frequency response and greater three-dimensionality of sound.
KT77 Gold Lion tubes, with their gold-plated pins and Kinkless Tetrode design, deliver incredibly natural sound, with deep bass, crystal-clear high-frequency extension, and extraordinary durability even under the most extreme conditions. Compared to EL34 tubes , KT77 tubes deliver richer, more detailed sound without the compression typical of lower-end tubes.
Technological innovation: Goodbye to the Auto-Bias system
One of the main innovations introduced in the S6 Black Edition is the removal of the Auto-Bias system. Traditionally, auto-bias is used in tube amplifiers to automatically adjust the operation of the tubes themselves, via a resistor and a bypass capacitor on the cathode. However, the use of these components inevitably introduces distortion and phase shifts, especially at low frequencies, which color the sound and limit its accuracy.
In the S6 Black Edition , eliminating the auto-bias system has allowed the removal of cathode capacitors, extending the frequency response and significantly improving sound quality, especially in the low frequencies. Without the auto-bias resistor, the tube can make the most of the available power, resulting in an increase in the amplifier's overall power output of approximately 15%.
This improvement translates into a more dynamic, faster, and more detailed sound, with deep, controlled bass reproduction. The end result is an extremely natural and colorless soundstage, enhancing every musical nuance.
Input selection and Return GND technology
Another innovative aspect of the S6 Black Edition is the relay-based input selection system with Return GND technology, derived from Unison Research's flagship models such as the Reference Pre and the Absolute . This system has been designed to minimize crosstalk and ensure perfect isolation between the various inputs, avoiding any interference or signal degradation.
Return GND technology provides load resistors for unused inputs, preventing the signal and its ground from propagating within the circuit board, thus minimizing interference and improving sound clarity. This system, combined with the use of shielded micro-relays with gold-plated silver contacts, ensures precise and uncompromising input selection.
Separate and independent power supply for each valve
The S6 Black Edition 's power supply has been completely redesigned to ensure maximum stability and reliability. Each tube is powered by a separate, independent line, minimizing interference between the various stages and improving overall sound quality.
To achieve even more precise transient response, Unison Research has introduced the use of polypropylene capacitors alongside traditional electrolytic capacitors. This solution allows for extremely linear frequency response and faster impulse response, improving dynamics and sound definition.
Stereo subwoofer output and digital connectivity
The S6 Black Edition is not only a classy tube amplifier, but also an extremely versatile device, capable of adapting to the needs of modern audio sources. One of the main new features is the introduction of a line-level, non-bandwidth-limited stereo subwoofer output, which allows you to easily integrate a subwoofer into your system without compromising sound quality.
The subwoofer output is taken directly from the amplifier output, thus maintaining the same sound timbre as the other channels, to ensure coherent and harmonious reproduction of low frequencies. This makes the S6 Black Edition ideal for multi-channel systems or for those who want even deeper and more precise bass reproduction.
Furthermore, the digital section of the S6 Black Edition is cutting-edge: there are three digital inputs (USB, optical and electrical SPDIF), which support resolutions up to 384 kHz and DSD 256. Digital conversion is entrusted to the prestigious Sabre ES908K2M chip, recognized as one of the best D/A converters on the market, capable of guaranteeing faithful and detailed reproduction even of high-resolution digital audio formats.
High-end design and finishes
In addition to its technical and sonic performance, the S6 Black Edition also stands out for its refined design and premium finish. The front panel, made of high-gloss lacquered wood with a piano finish, is the result of a lengthy artisanal process, requiring multiple steps to achieve a perfect result. This treatment not only enhances the beauty of the wood, but also ensures long-lasting protection against scratches and external agents.
The black gunmetal finish, with a cataphoresis surface treatment, offers exceptional resistance to external agents and gives the amplifier an elegant, contemporary look. Every detail of the S6 Black Edition is designed to reflect the meticulous care with which it was designed and crafted, combining tradition and innovation in a single product.
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We chose this business out of passion, and we continue it with passion. Our experience in music reproduction and live music constantly guides us in the choices we make regarding the products we select for you.