Arcam rHead Headphone Amplifier
Arcam has always been known for producing class-leading integrated amplifiers, all of which featured excellent headphone stages. The rHead continues that tradition, but n the highly specialised area of discrete analogue headphone amplification in a small, solidly and beautifully built unit designed to complement the audio system of any headphone lover.
- Audiophile class A headphone amplifier
- 3.5 and 6.35mm headphones supported
- RCA & XLR inputs supported
- Ultra-linear analogue volume control
- High-end audio circuitry
- Comprehensive protection systems
- Stylish cast aluminium casework
The rHead is a true linear class A design, resulting in absolutely no crossover distortion for the purest sound. Extensive care has been taken to optimise the layout and areas like multiple ultra-low noise power supplies and a fully direct coupled signal path make a big difference. Also, the volume control is an ultra-linear analogue resistive ladder device, as used in the flagship A49, which eliminates tracking errors which can be found in normal potentiometer-based volume controls.
Comprehensive protection systems prevent damage to the rHead while not interfering in any way with the ultimate reproduction of the sound - the rHead sounds amazingly natural and completely engaging and reveals the true character of any music that is played through it.
The rHead is more than capable of driving the most demanding of headphones. Both RCA and XLR inputs (switchable) are available, as well as both 3.5 and 6.35mm sockets, allowing for ultimate headphone listening flexibility.
Technical Specifications
Frequency response
10Hz - 20kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise
0.001% at 2V output, 32Ohm load
Signal-to-noise ratio (A-weighted)
109dB at 2V output, 32Ohm load
Power requirements
12V DC, 1.5A
Headphone output power
2.0W, 16Ohm load
1.1W, 32Ohm load
0.13W, 300Ohm load
Headphone recommended impedance
16Ohm - 600Ohm, 3.5 or 6.35mm plug
Output impedance
<0.5Ohm
Input levels
0-4V (RCA)
0-8V (XLR)