N7 & N7D two sides of the same coin

Two variants of the N7 series, designed to meet different needs, N7, Class A discrete component headphone amplifier, and the N7D which adds a reference digital-to-analog conversion section. Both devices share the same design philosophy: use of fully balanced discrete circuitry and pure Class A operation.

Common to both models is the JFET-based architecture, a design choice that allows for excellent sound characteristics that will undoubtedly be appreciated by those seeking the warmth and musicality typical of tube amplifiers but without sacrificing the reliability of solid state. Both models use pairs of TWIN-JFET semiconductors in a single package, ensuring the best thermal behavior and maximum stability.

The only real difference between N7 and N7D is obviously in the management of digital sources. The first is a purely analog amplifier, equipped with RCA and XLR inputs, and this configuration makes it the ideal choice for those who already own a DAC or prefer maximum flexibility. The N7D, on the other hand, integrates a sophisticated digital-to-analog conversion section based on two Cirrus Logic CS43198 chips, one dedicated to each channel, capable of handling audio streams up to 32 bit and 384 kilohertz, as well as the DSD format up to DSD256, allowing full exploitation of any type of file. Same analog inputs and outputs as N7 but with the addition of the USB-C input to ensure maximum compatibility with any hardware, Windows and Mac computers and iOS and Android devices, transforming the N7 DAC Edition into a complete all-in-one solution for those who want a single component capable of handling both digital and analog sources.

Both models share the same volume control system based on an R2R resistor ladder, a technical solution usually found in much more expensive machines. Two chips produced by JRC, paired with as many custom operational amplifiers, form a balanced four-channel volume control with great precision and reliability.

The output section represents another element of excellence. Both N7 and N7 DAC Edition implement Class A final sections with 4 transistors that constantly operate in Class A, producing a significant thermal flow, dissipated through the chassis entirely made of solid aluminum. This solution ensures uniform heat dissipation while maintaining stable performance over time.

From the point of view of versatility, both models offer a dual gain configuration that makes them suitable for both in-ear monitor earphones and over-ear headphones with high power demand. The high-gain stage is capable of delivering up to 6.5 watts of power on the balanced output, more than enough to effortlessly drive even planar magnetic or high-impedance dynamic headphones. The 6.5w then drops to 2.2W at 100 ohms and 370 milliwatts at 600 ohms. Even the single-ended 6.35-millimeter output offers remarkable performance, with 1900 milliwatts at 32 ohms and 106 milliwatts at 600 ohms. In low-gain mode, the balanced output delivers 2150 milliwatts at 32 ohms while the single-ended provides 570 milliwatts at the same impedance, values more than adequate for use with sensitive headphones.

Regarding the outputs, both offer a 6.35-millimeter single-ended jack and a 4.4-millimeter Pentaconn balanced jack for headphones, as well as both RCA and balanced XLR line outputs that allow using N7 and N7D also as preamplifiers to connect to active speakers or power amplifiers.

The aesthetics for both are those of the latest AUNE models, compact, made of high-level materials and graceful lines. A three-inch color display shows all operating parameters in real-time, including level and temperature, displayed through two distinct colors for immediate and intuitive reading. A multifunction knob on the front panel allows control of all main functions, and an elegant aluminum remote control is included and allows you to manage the device comfortably.

Obviously, both N7 and N7D are suitable for driving the AR5000 open and SR7000 closed headphones from the same AUNE without any uncertainty, both dynamic with high performance and suitable for different needs.

Who is Aune Audio?

AUNE is an oriental manufacturer that has progressively established itself in the hi-fi and personal audio landscape thanks to a research-oriented approach. The brand was born in the mid-2000s, initially as an entity focused on the development of digital circuits and D/A converters, then expanding the catalog to include solid-state and hybrid amplifiers, balanced solutions, DACs with increasingly sophisticated architectures, and later, also planar magnetic headphones.

Technical Features

N7/N7D

• RCA/XLR input impedance: 10kΩ/22kΩ
• RCA/XLR output impedance: 200Ω/100Ω
• Headphone outputs: 6.35/44mm
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20kHz +/- 0.005dB
• THD distortion: 0.0004%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >105dB
• Crosstalk: <100dB
• High gain output power 6.35mm 32Ω/600Ω: 1900mW/106mW
• High gain output power 4.4mm 32Ω/600Ω: 6570mW/370mW
• Dimensions: 208X160X80

N7D Sampling Frequencies:

• PCM up to 32bit 384kHz, DSD up to DSD256

Prices

N7: 429€

N7D: 529€

To buy Aune N7

To buy Aune N7D