DENAFRIPS HESTIA 15TH is a solid-state preamplifier designed to manage audio systems with balanced and unbalanced connections. Its line stage uses a pure Class A, fully discrete and truly balanced configuration. The design is intended to maintain a defined signal path, with precisely selected components and a microprocessor-controlled relay volume control.

The model belongs to the series dedicated to the 15Th anniversary and combines three central elements: a fully discrete analogue topology, a 60-level stepped attenuator and an input section comprising two XLR inputs and one RCA input. It is therefore designed to fit into configurations in which the source and power amplifier can use balanced connections, without giving up the possibility of connecting a source with an RCA output.

Pure Class A line stage

The heart of the DENAFRIPS HESTIA 15TH is a pure Class A line stage. The circuit is fully discrete: it is not based on a single integrated solution, but on a design made up of separate components. The topology is also stated to be truly balanced, a feature consistent with the presence of two XLR inputs and one XLR output.

The careful selection of resistors and other components contributes to circuit consistency and channel control. The components are precisely matched, with the aim of achieving perfect balance between the left and right channels. The specifications state a THD+N distortion of 0.0006% with A-weighting, a signal-to-noise ratio of 120 dB, a dynamic range greater than 121 dB and stereo crosstalk of -110 dB.

These figures describe the declared electrical performance of the preamplifier and help frame the product during the selection process. The frequency response is specified from 10 Hz to 80 kHz with a variation of -0.3 dB. The gain is unity: HESTIA 15TH is therefore not presented as a stage intended to increase the signal level, but as a preamplifier that manages its path and volume.

60-level volume control

The volume is regulated by a relay-based stepped attenuator controlled by a microprocessor. There are 60 levels, a structure that allows the listening level to be adjusted through defined steps rather than by means of a continuous analogue control. The system is designed with precisely matched resistors, so as to maintain balance between the two channels during adjustment.

The relay control is one of the distinctive elements of the signal-management section. Each volume change corresponds to one attenuator level, while the microprocessor coordinates the operation of the circuit. The result is an adjustment interface based on 60 steps, suitable for those who want repeatable and easily recallable control.

Management can also take place remotely thanks to the remote control supplied. The remote control uses a CR2032 3 V coin-cell battery, which is not included in the shipment for logistical reasons and must therefore be obtained separately. This information is useful for preparing the product for use without inconvenience during installation.

Inputs and outputs

Analogue connectivity comprises three inputs in total:

• IN1: XLR;
• IN2: XLR;
• IN3: RCA.

The presence of two XLR inputs makes it possible to organise a chain with multiple balanced sources, while the RCA input allows an analogue source with an unbalanced output to be connected. The input selection depends on the source used and the type of connection available in the system. HESTIA 15TH is an analogue preamplifier: the supplied data do not indicate digital inputs, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, streaming or DAC conversion functions.

The outputs offer two declared nominal levels: the RCA output reaches 2.0 Vrms, while the XLR output reaches 4.0 Vrms. The input impedance is 20 kΩ and the output impedance is 200 Ω. These values are important technical references for assessing the integration of the preamplifier into your system and checking its pairing with the power amplifier or the connected downstream device.

Technical specifications and system use

With unity gain, the DENAFRIPS HESTIA 15TH is intended to manage the level and select sources within the audio chain. No data relating to additional gain are provided, so its function should be distinguished from that of a power amplifier or a stage designed to increase the signal. The Class A configuration, discrete circuit and relay control instead define the architecture of the line section.

To use the inputs and outputs correctly, it is necessary to consider the type of connection used by the equipment already present. Balanced sources can be connected to the two XLR inputs; a source with RCA connectors can use the IN3 input. For the downstream connection, it is possible to choose between RCA at 2.0 Vrms and XLR at 4.0 Vrms, based on the inputs available on the next device and the desired configuration.

The declared performance also includes a dynamic range greater than 121 dB and a signal-to-noise ratio of 120 dB. The stereo crosstalk specified at -110 dB completes the set of parameters relating to channel separation. These are specifications measured and declared by the manufacturer; overall performance in a system nevertheless depends on the pairing with sources, cables, amplification and loudspeakers.

Power supply, format and finish

The preamplifier requires a 110/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz power supply. The declared consumption is 1 W at rest and 20 W during operation. These values help plan the installation and assess the availability of space and power within the audio rack.

The dimensions are 322 mm in width, 348 mm in depth and 74 mm in height. The declared weight is 6.5 kg. Before placing HESTIA 15TH, it is advisable to check that the shelf has sufficient space in width and depth and can support the weight of the unit. The chassis is available in the black/silver colour combination, designed to fit into different aesthetic configurations.

The product comes with a declared 12-month warranty. The indicated category is amplifiers, while the technical description specifically identifies it as a line preamplifier. The CR2032 3 V battery is not included with the remote control: it is therefore advisable to take this into account before first using the remote control.

Who it is for

DENAFRIPS HESTIA 15TH is intended for those looking for an analogue preamplifier with a pure Class A line stage, fully discrete circuitry and a balanced architecture. The equipment is particularly suitable for systems with multiple XLR sources, but also includes an RCA input to maintain flexibility in connections.

It is a choice to consider when 60-level relay volume control, remote operation, a 4.0 Vrms XLR output and a 2.0 Vrms RCA output are important. Before purchase, it is useful to check connector compatibility, the output levels required by the downstream device, the input impedance of the connected device and the space available for the chassis dimensions.

Key features

• Signal-to-noise ratio: 120 dB
• Input impedance: 20k Ω
• Output impedance: 200 Ω
• Product category: Amplifier
• Circuit topology: Fully discrete and balanced
• Components: Precisely selected resistors and components

Technical specifications

Signal-to-noise ratio	120 dB
Input impedance	20k Ω
Output impedance	200 Ω
Product category	Amplifier
Circuit topology	Fully discrete and balanced
Components	Precisely selected resistors and components
Design class	Pure Class A
Dynamic range	>121 dB
Frequency response	10-80 kHz (-0.3dB)
Gain	Unity gain
Input 1	XLR
Input 2	XLR
Input 3	RCA
RCA output level	2.0 Vrms
XLR output level	4.0 Vrms
Idle consumption	1 W
Operating consumption	20 W
Required power supply	110/240 VAC, 50/60Hz
Remote control	Remote-controlled
Stereo crosstalk	-110 dB
THD+N distortion	0.0006% A
Volume control	Microprocessor-controlled relay attenuator, 60 levels
Warranty	12 months

Technical insights

The listed specifications help compare the product’s configuration, compatibility and performance.

Related products

Xindak XA8250MKII · LAiV Harmony HP2A · Xindak CA-1

Frequently asked questions

How many inputs does the DENAFRIPS HESTIA 15TH have?

It has three analogue inputs: two XLR inputs, identified as IN1 and IN2, and one RCA input, identified as IN3.

How is the volume adjusted?

The volume is managed by a relay-based stepped attenuator, controlled by a microprocessor and arranged over 60 levels.

What are the output levels?

The RCA output is specified at 2.0 Vrms, while the XLR output is specified at 4.0 Vrms.

Does the remote control include the battery?

The product can be controlled via remote control, but the CR2032 3 V coin-cell battery is not included in the shipment and must be purchased separately.

What are the dimensions and weight of the preamplifier?

The dimensions are 322 mm in width, 348 mm in depth and 74 mm in height; the declared weight is 6.5 kg.