Icon Audio HP 205D Headphone Amplifier
Icon Audio HP 205D Flagship Valve Headphone Amplifier utilizes a single-ended directly heated triode design. With an optional bluetooth receiver, the HP 205D is very versatile. This pure valve model from Icon Audio can be used both as a stand-alone unit or within a high end hifi setup.
Simplicity is key
Taking inspiration from the hugely successful HP8 headphone amplifier and experience built from the 1920s remarkable WE 205D valve, Icon Audio have combined the two in a no compromise design which has surpassed even their own expectations.
Headphone Amp
Headphones have the ability to convey incredible detail and insight into recording so meticulous circuit design is essential. Like conventional valve amplifiers, the output transformers are vital to the quality and Icon Audio's custom designed and wound transformers play a crucial role in this. Advanced "Directly Heated Triodes" design demands superior power supplied by outboard supply using a classic valve rectifier and choke circuit.
Although headphones have only a very small power requirement (>1 Watt), Icon Audio invested the same care and attention to detail required for any "high-end" design. Every component is selected carefully to avoid degrading the ultimate sound quality. HP 205D is hard wired throughout (free from printed circuit boards) for better sound quality via full size components and easier upgrades and for effortless future service.
Valve Design
205D was designed by the Western Electric Co in the 1920s making it probably the oldest valve still in production. As a small power output valve, it features everything required for heaphone use. High end headphones can be very revealing sounding overly bright with some amplifiers. Acoustic performance has highest definition and incredible dynamics for more vivid and warmer sound free of fatigue. The 205D is powered by an ECC88 contemporary valve which complements the 205D technically and sonically.
