The new Precision Stereo Preamplifier C-3850 continues the challenge and raises the bar even further, bringing together the entire wealth of preamplifier know-how gained by Accuphase over the years. In construction as well as circuit design, it incorporates the latest technology realized with components selected through a thorough review process, including extended listening tests. The result is an audio instrument that admits no compromise in the pursuit of peerless performance for musical mastery.
The C-3850 features a further evolved version of this principle, called “Balanced AAVA”, with two AAVA circuits driven in a parallel balanced configuration. AAVA does not “turn down” the volume in the ordinary sense. Rather, it switches a combination of V-I amplifiers as required to directly change the amplifier gain and thereby achieve the desired volume. This revolutionary approach eliminates impedance changes as well as adverse effects from noise and other factors.

The entire path for all signals from the input connectors to the outputs is fully balanced, and signal purity is further elevated by the use of ultimate-quality parts and materials, ensuring electrical characteristics and sonic excellence of the highest order. With its no-holds-barred use of resources and its bold realization of the latest circuit design, the C-3850 is an analog preamplifier that redefines the state of the art and points the way toward the future.

Warranty:

1-year manufacturer’s warranty

Features:

  • Revolutionary low-noise “Balanced AAVA Volume Control.”
  • High-rigidity, high-accuracy volume knob sensor mechanism
  • Separate high-efficiency toroidal power transformers for left and right channels
  • Selectable preamp gain
  • Fully modular construction with separate left/right units for each amplifier stage
  • Logic-controlled relays for shortest signal paths
  • Independent phase selection for each input position
  • Printed circuit boards made from glass cloth and fluorocarbon resin
  • Massive wood cabinet with a natural grain finish

High-rigidity volume sensor construction
Turning the volume knob on the front panel causes the actual volume level position to be detected. The corresponding signal is sent to a CPU, which in turn controls the current switches and thereby the gain of the AAVA circuitry. The massive knob extruded from a solid aluminum block and mounted on a large-diameter shaft has exactly the right amount of inertia. Together with the low-friction internal mechanism, this provides a silky smooth operation feel and also allows extremely quiet motor-driven operation.

Precision Stereo Preamplifier
As the ultimate analog preamplifier, the C-3850 has been honed to perfection, bringing together sophisticated technology and carefully selected materials in a package of refined visual appeal. The gold-hue front panel and the exquisite wood cabinet reflect true craftsmanship, as the natural wood grain of each unit has been mirror-finished by expert hands. The result is a product that exudes a graceful and dignified atmosphere.

Unit amplifier assembly
A total of 18 unit amplifiers handle the signal transmission for the left and right channels. The printed circuit boards are made from glass cloth fluorocarbon resin, and the copper foil surfaces are gold-plated. The unit amplifiers are mounted on a glass epoxy motherboard, and the left and right sections are kept completely separate. An 8 mm thick frame made of hard aluminum prevents mutual interference by providing electrical shielding and suppressing physical vibrations

Technical Specifications:

Input: RCA 6 systems, XLR 4 systems
Pre-out: RCA 2 systems, XLR 2 systems
RECORDER input / output: RCA 1 system
EXT PRE input: RCA 1 system, XLR 1 system
GAIN switch: 12 dB, 18 dB, 24 dB
Loudness compensator: 1 ( + 2dB 100Hz), 2 (+ 4dB 100Hz), 3 (+ 6.5dB 100Hz)
Headphone terminal: Output level 2V (40Ω)
Attenuator: -20dB
Power consumption: 55W
Size: W (width): 477 mmH (height): 156 mm D (depth): 406 mm
Weight: 25 kg