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LAiV Crescendo CHORUS: compact GaN amplification, stereo and mono
The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS is a Class D power amplifier based on gallium nitride transistors, or GaN. Its distinguishing feature is the ability to operate both as a stereo amplifier and as a bridge mono unit, while retaining a compact format and an approach focused on integration flexibility.
The model belongs to the Crescendo collection and carries forward the core technology developed for the higher-end Harmony GaNM model, offering it in a more accessible configuration. The difference is not merely aesthetic: the CHORUS uses a stamped aluminum chassis and a 160 W power supply, while the Harmony GaNM employs a machined-from-solid chassis and a 250 W power supply. Its positioning is therefore that of a compact power amplifier intended for traditional hi-fi systems, desktop systems and configurations that may be expanded at a later stage.
Class D with GaN technology
In the CHORUS, the power section uses GaN transistors, a technology characterized by higher switching speeds than traditional silicon MOSFETs. According to the available documentation, this architecture was adopted to reduce distortion, extend bandwidth and improve the amplifier’s energy efficiency.
The specifications state total harmonic distortion plus noise below 0.005% at 5 W into 8 ohms, a frequency response of 20 Hz–22 kHz with a tolerance of ±3 dB, and a signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB or higher. The damping factor is specified as approximately 200 at 1 kHz into 8 ohms. These are technical figures describing the product’s electrical behavior and do not replace a listening evaluation conducted under controlled conditions.
Two operating modes
Stereo operation
In stereo mode, a single unit handles both channels and delivers 50 W per channel into 8 ohms or 80 W per channel into 4 ohms. This is the most straightforward configuration for a hi-fi system or a desktop system equipped with a preamplifier, a DAC with volume control or another source with an analog output.
The input panel includes a balanced XLR connection and a single-ended RCA. In stereo mode, only one analog input may be connected at a time, either XLR or RCA. The speaker outputs use terminals compatible with banana plugs, spade connectors and bare wire.
Bridge mono operation
When set to bridge mono, the CHORUS becomes a balanced differential amplifier capable of delivering 120 W into 8 or 4 ohms. The documentation also specifies an instantaneous peak power of up to 165 W and stated stability with loads down to 2 ohms.
This mode allows a single unit to be used as a monophonic power amplifier for one speaker. The RCA input, normally single-ended, is also internally converted into a balanced signal when the CHORUS operates in bridge mono. This is a useful detail for those who have a preamplifier or DAC with RCA outputs only and wish to adopt a mono configuration.
From stereo system to dual mono
The possibility of using two Crescendo CHORUS units in bridge mono provides a natural upgrade path. In this configuration, each unit is dedicated to one channel and the electrical separation between left and right is complete. The documentation presents dual mono as the recommended solution for achieving maximum channel separation, without making it a prerequisite for getting started: the product can also be used normally in stereo with a single unit.
- One unit in stereo: both channels are handled by the same amplifier, with 50 W per channel into 8 ohms.
- One unit in bridge mono: the CHORUS drives a single speaker with 120 W into 8 or 4 ohms.
- Two units in dual mono: each amplifier operates in bridge mono and is assigned to a separate channel.
This architecture makes the CHORUS suitable both for an established system and for a project built up gradually. The purchase of a second unit can be considered at a later stage, depending on the speakers, the room and the configuration requirements.
Construction, power consumption and protection
The stamped aluminum chassis contributes to thermal management and acts as a passive heat sink. The documentation describes fanless operation, with external temperatures generally remaining moderate during normal use. The stated weight is approximately 1.5 kg per unit, consistent with the project’s compact focus.
Power consumption is specified as 0.5 W or less in standby, below 20 W at idle and up to 160 W at maximum power. The power supply accepts values between 100 and 260 V AC, at 50/60 Hz. Two finishes are also available: anodized black, designated Ebony Black, and anodized silver.
The control section incorporates a microcontroller that performs diagnostics at startup. The safety system includes three main protections:
- DC protection: disconnects the output to prevent a DC component from reaching the speakers.
- Overload and overcurrent protection: monitors the output current and intervenes when abnormal conditions occur.
- Thermal protection: shuts down the output if the temperature exceeds safe limits.
The CHORUS also includes a microSD slot for firmware updates. This provision leaves room for software interventions intended to improve operating stability or add future functionality, according to the product documentation.
Use scenarios
In a traditional hi-fi system, the CHORUS can be connected to a preamplifier or a DAC equipped with volume control. Stereo mode is the simplest choice for driving a pair of speakers, while bridge mono makes it possible to design a system with separate power amplifiers.
In a desktop system, the compact format and low weight facilitate placement in spaces where a conventional power amplifier might prove cumbersome. The presence of both XLR and RCA inputs broadens compatibility with sources and preamplifiers of different designs.
Mono operation can also be considered when the aim is to dedicate one amplifier to each speaker. The stated stability down to 2 ohms broadens the range of possible pairings, but the load selection must always be assessed together with the specific characteristics of the speakers and the actual operating conditions.
Conclusions
The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS combines a versatile amplification platform in a compact unit: GaN technology, stereo or bridge mono operation, XLR and RCA inputs, passive thermal management and integrated protection. The possibility of starting with a single unit and later moving to a dual mono configuration adds flexibility to the project.
The listed price is 1,099.00 euros at the time of publication and may change without notice in the future. In terms of its features and design, the CHORUS is aimed at those seeking a power amplifier that is compact in size but versatile in its operating modes, with defined technical specifications and a configuration path that can evolve over time.
