ATC SCA2 Preamplifier
The ATC SCA2 preamplifier was initially conceived to fulfil a specific need – to create a no-compromise amplifier to partner the range of ATC active loudspeaker systems. However, as development progressed it became abundantly clear that the ATC SCA2 preamplifier was capable of enhancing the performance of any audiophile separates system.
In fact, the outstanding ability of the ATC SCA2 preamplifier left many who auditioned the final pre-production prototype in no doubt that they were listening to possibly the finest example of preamplifier design – ever.
Available in-store only
Category Preamplifier
Country UK
Manufacturer ATC
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Frequency Response
D.C. – >500kHz (-3dB)
THD
< 0.0005%/ -106dB (1kHz, 1V, 600 ohms)
S+N/N Ratio
>108dB (IEC ‘A’)
Crosstalk
>90dB (10Hz – 20kHz)
Input sensitivity
230mV (re. 1V output)
Maximum Output Level – Balanced
17V r.m.s (600 ohms)
Maximum Output Level – Unbalanced
8.5V r.m.s. (600 ohms)
Analogue Pre-Amp Outputs
1 x stereo male XLR (balanced), 1 x stereo RCA/Phono (unbalanced)
Analogue Tape Output
2 x stereo via RCA/Phono
Analogue Inputs
2 x stereo via female XLR (balanced), 6 x stereo via RCA/Phono (unbalanced)
RIAA Input
Optional via addition of internal card (converts 1 x stereo line input). Configurable Moving Coil / Moving Magnet (MC/MM) with adjustable gain & loading.
Dimensions
102 x 440 x 353mm / 4.0 x 17.3 x 13.9 inches (H x W x D)
Weight
6.85kg / 15.07lbs
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Free Delivery within Mainland UK.
60-Day Money-back Guarantee
Returns Policy
ATC SCA2 Preamplifier
Features:
Hand-built in the UK.
2 balanced stereo inputs and balanced output.
6 phono inputs.
Fully discrete Ultra-Low noise circuitry throughout.
Optional Ultra-Low Noise discrete RIAA phono stage.
6-year warranty.
A key feature of the ATC SCA2 preamplifier is the total elimination of audio-integrated circuits in the main signal path which is made possible through the introduction of no fewer than ten high-performance discrete circuitry gain blocks. Furthermore, all amplifiers in the monitor chain are of a similar type and built from discrete bipolar transistors and FETs.
The input stage is a fully complimentary dual long tail pair arrangement which uses low-noise bipolar transistors with constant collector voltages provided by cascoded junction FETs. Output of the current mirrors is buffered by a pair of complimentary Sziklai Darlington transistors. To further minimize signal degradation, input circuitry including all sockets, selection relays and tape buffer is mounted directly onto a single PCB.
In essence, the gain block within the ATC SCA2 preamplifier is a high output, low distortion amplifier with a very wide bandwidth which is easy to use in conventional feedback configuration because it has only one stage of gain (in other words, there is only one possible source of roll-off and phase shift at high frequency.) The result is a remarkable audiophile product which, in both laboratory and subjective listening tests, clearly redefines the state of the art.
Auditioning reveals an open, neutral, transparent amplifier creating a solid soundstage which is both wide and deep. Voices are reproduced with uncanny realism being portrayed with natural warmth and articulation. Bass takes on a rich, superbly controlled solidity. Strings are reproduced with a fine degree of detail and texture, while brass is conveyed with attack and clarity. Percussion is handled with great speed and definition. As you’d expect from a design as highly specified as the ATC SCA2 preamplifier, dynamic range is outstanding.
