The CA200 is in many ways the ultimate embodiment of our corporate design philosophy that simple circuits yield best results. Its audio circuit consists of a single voltage gain stage followed by a high-current buffer/output stage able to deliver nearly 200 watts per channel into 8-ohm loads. The amplifier circuit is similar to our highly regarded Premier 350, using conrad-johnson’s auto-linear j-fet voltage gain circuit and a high-current bi-polar output stage to achieve low distortion and a high damping factor with zero loop negative feedback. The CA200 adds a discrete stepped attenuator level control and input selector switches (all operable by remote control) to eliminate the need for a preamplifier. In fact, there is no line-stage integrated into the CA200 - hence the term “control amplifier”.
Similar in function to an integrated amplifier, a control amplifier offers the significant potential improvement of eliminating superfluous connections, external cabling, and inter-device connection considerations that limit conventional audio systems. But the control amplifeir also eliminates an entire stage of audio circuitry (the line stage) and its inherent colorations.
Most integrated amplifiers not only forgo the advantage of eliminating superfluous circuits, but also are cheapened to offer a low cost entry into a prestigious brand, thereby failing to achieve even the performance gains that could be afforded by integrating preamp and amp into a single package.
By contrast, the CA200 circuits incorporate top quality parts (metal foil resistors, polystyrene and polypropylene capacitors, machined gold-plated connectors, etc.) to fully realize the dramatic potential of a control amplifier to enhance the immediacy of musical experience afforded by fine recordings. As a result, the CA200 is notable for its resolution of subtle dynamic shadings and palpable imaging, for a natural harmonic tonality, and extraordinary resolution. A half-scale version of the Premier 350 amplifier at the CA200’s price would be an excellent value. Add in the full switching and level control functionality of the control amplifier and it can be seen to be a genuine bargain.
Specifications
Power: 185 watts per channel RMS both channels driven into 8 ohms from 20Hz to 20kHz at no more than 1% total harmonic distortion or intermodulation distortion.
Sensitivity: .32Vrms to rated output
Small Signal Distortion: less than .1% at mid-band
Frequency Response: 20Hz to 20kHz +0/-.5dB
Hum and Noise: 102dB below rated output
Phase: speaker output is phase inverted, preamp output is phase correct
Input Impedance: varies with level control setting, 12k Ohms minimum
Dimensions: 15.5"D x 19"W x 3.315"H
Net Weight: 38 lb net
All conrad-johnson products are carefully hand assembled and each is thoroughly tested to assure conformity to our exacting performance standards. Our confidence in these components is reflected in our three year limited warranty covering labor and parts. Service is a top priority at conrad-johnson. In the event that a product does require service, it will be handled promptly and efficiently.
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conrad-johnson design, inc. 2733 Merrilee Drive Fairfax, VA 22031
phone: 703-698-8581, fax: 703-560-5360