Esoteric F-07 Integrated amplifier with phono stage

Virtually impervious to noise, the preamplifier’s fully balanced configuration delivers pure and powerful signal amplification at ultra-low impedance. 。

Most clearly reflecting Grandioso thinking, the F-07’s dual monaural configuration maintains complete left and right channel independence through all stages, from the preamplifier to the power amplifier’s final stage. Outstanding circuit construction also yields excellent channel separation and sound quality to transcend the class.

Playing a significant role in the F-07’s balanced dual monaural configuration is Esoteric’s proprietary Quad Volume Control System (QVCS), which incorporates a total of four precision switched resistor ladder networks operating in unison to independently and electronically control the left and right channels and their positive and negative phases. This system helps maintain superb audio clarity, excellent channel separation and highly accurate phase characteristics. Further, by eliminating all volume control wiring on the audio board, the resulting shorter signal path minimizes deterioration of sound quality while realizing exceptionally low distortion.

As a countermeasure against noise, control board is housed in the front panel and electronically isolated from the main preamplifier board.

Employing the same high-precision bearing mechanisms used in our Grandioso components, the F-07’s volume control knob and selector switches offer exceptionally smooth operation with an analog feel free of mechanical play. Sparing no cost, all panel knobs have also been custom-machined from solid aluminum.

The dual mono phono equalizer (MM/MC) features independent left and right channel power supplies and independent circuits.

The F-07’s powerful headphone amp delivers ample output to effectively drive high-impedance headphones.

Consisting of four circuits (L/R, –/+) for each band, the system’s balanced dual monaural configuration enables the user to adjust tone settings free of any concerns about deterioration of sound quality. Shifting the variable bands more toward the high and low frequency ranges (14kHz/63Hz) permits fine tone adjustment without adversely affecting the original source signal. Fully electronic control also permits fine adjustment of up to ±12dB in 0.5dB steps.

With its balanced front stage, the power amplification section’s clean amplification and low impedance further enhance the dynamic range.

The power supply features a large-core 633VA custom EI power transformer and 40,000µF block capacitors for each channel in its dual monaural configuration. Large-gauge cable used in all power connections helps minimize impedance to further ensure that every musical dynamic is faithfully reproduced by this outstanding power section.

The speaker output section employs eight 1mm-thick high-purity OFC bus bars and MOSFET switching with no mechanical contacts. Coils have also been eliminated from the output stage to minimize impedance and enhance drive capability.

Large bipolar transistors deliver an outstanding continuous current capacity of 15A, and 30A of instantaneous peak power to ensure accurate reproduction of the most delicate tones.

The F-07’s amplifier modules inherit the true spirit of our flagship Grandioso line with a three-stage Darlington configuration that utilizes two parallel push-pull sections. Proprietary LIDSC* circuitry reduces the drive section’s second stage to final stage output impedance, achieving loudspeaker drive capability closely rivals to that of our separate amplifiers.
* LIDSC: Low Impedance Drive Stage Coupling

The F-07’s robust 3D Optimized Chassis construction gives each circuit block its own dedicated compartment. Interference between circuits is effectively minimized while achieving the shortest possible cable routing. Chassis exteriors are formed of thick aluminum panels manufactured with the same uncompromising design philosophy imbued in Esoteric’s separate amplifiers. As a result, their heavy-duty construction tips the scales at a total weight of 27.2kg, exceptional among integrated models. The steel insulators supporting the unit at four points further exemplify the rigorous countermeasures taken to minimize the effects of vibration.

The preamplifier and power amplifier sections of the F Series boast the same degree of refinement as Esoteric’s separates, and can both be used as standalone devices, or even disabled if not in use. The PRE-out employs a powerful buffer amplifier. System upgrades can also be performed with no compromises in quality, and an optional board slot facilitates the installation of an optional board, such as OP-DAC1 D/A Converter Board or OP-ESLA1 ES-Link Analog Input Board.