8
Fully Balanced Design A truly balanced input topology eliminates the need for an input
buffer amplification stage, allowing the first stage differential
amplifier to be driven directly by the source. Matched impedances
are presented to the source and both signals travel through identical
circuit paths.
Meticulous attention to the layout of the amplifier, including
careful mirror-imaging of circuits to cancel magnetic fields, was
essential to minimize magnetic field distortions that can occur
with such a massive power delivery system. The input signal
remains balanced, and rejection of common mode noise and
distortion is achieved in the loudspeaker’s voice coil.
True Voltage Source The Nº33H operates like a true voltage source—maintaining the
appropriate voltage at a given time (based on signal demands)
without particular regard for the current demands of the associated
loudspeakers. Whether the loudspeakers require a 1 or 50-amp cur-
rent, the Nº33H will deliver.
Forty output transistors distributed throughout the four main heat
sinks conduct and control the flow of power to the associated
loudspeakers. Ten complementary pairs of output transistors are
used in both the inverting and non-inverting output stages.
No known high-quality loudspeaker can continuously absorb the
full power of the Nº33H; but many loudspeakers require these
extreme bursts of power on a short-term basis when reproducing
music at realistic levels. The Nº33H provides these short bursts
without creating power supply sag or altering sonic performance.
Its imperturbable nature is reflected in the authority and control
with which it reproduces musical signals.
Extensive Protection The Nº33H is designed to shut down if it senses certain fault
conditions that could cause damage to itself or associated
loudspeakers. These fault conditions include:
• The presence of DC (direct current) at the output
• Sustained output current (≥40 amps), indicating a
short-circuit across the outputs
• Over or under-voltage conditions at the ~ac mains
connector
• Unsafe operating temperatures in a critical area within the
amplifier.
When powered on or placed in standby, the Nº33H will
automatically power off—as if the rear panel power switch had
been set to the off position—if a fault condition is detected. It
will not power on again until the fault condition is corrected. To
restore normal operation, remove the cause of the fault and power