Bristol Hi-Fi Show 2024: Ultrafide Audio Ultra Sigma Pre/Power Combo
Ultrafide Audio continues in its quest to bring pro audio to the home with the Ultra Sigma U4PRE quad output analogue preamplifier and U500DC audiophile power amplifier.
Ultrafide unveiled its U4PRE preamplifier and U500DC in 2023 at the consistently excellent UK Audio Show, with the resulting soft launch selling out. However, the products are now on general release as of Q1 2024.
Ultrafide stands for ultra-fidelity audio and is a domestic arm of MC2's pioneering work in live and studio sound, where the British pro-audio manufacturer has been a top-level industry player for three decades. Ultrafide promises "no application constraints, no logistical hurdles, no compromises - just the best engineering, design and components to bring the finest possible sound to the home".
Ultrafide tells us that lead product designer and audio engineer Alex Cooper was given a blank canvas with which to create Ultrafide products and freedom to over-engineer, with the sole goal of audio quality, sonic purity and unrivalled stereo image - resulting in the Ultra Sigma combo.
The U4PRE quad output analogue preamplification system has been designed with a minimal signal path philosophy. This, says Ultrafide, results in super low noise and distortion. It features a state-of-the-art Ultrafide-designed adjustable phono stage that's suitable for both MM/MC cartridges, single-ended RCA inputs/outputs, balanced XLR inputs/outputs and a digitally controlled analogue circuit volume control - complete with digital display screen and remote control.
Next in the chain is the U500DC ultra-fidelity audiophile power amplifier - featuring an all-new passive cooling system and push/pull modular output stage for ultra-low noise operation.
Additionally, it boasts a DC-coupled input-output and a generous 250W at 8 ohms (500W @ 4 ohms) stereo power delivery. Ultrafide states this amplifier can be used in all manner of home/studio applications with astonishing results, leaving plenty of headroom and delivering unparalleled high-end definition and low-end response.
Mark Bailey, product specialist at Ultrafide Audio and MC2, told StereoNET:
We firmly believe the Ultra Sigma combo stacks up next to anything on the market, and we're offering a new perspective for audiophiles with our U4PRE and U500DC products. One thing's for sure: Pro Sound is homebound.
Ultrafide Audio showcases the U4PRE and U500DC at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show on February 23-25. Find the team in Room 314.
Designed to work perfectly in tandem but equally effective individually, both Ultra Sigma units are priced at £4,500 RRP (each).
Visit Ultrafide for more information
Jay Garrett
StereoNET’s resident rock star, bass player, and gadget junkie. Jay heads up StereoNET as Editor for the United Kingdom and Europe regions. His passion for gadgets and Hi-Fi is second only to being a touring musician.
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