RA280

The HiFi Rose RA280 is an integrated amplifier with a built-in MM phono pre-amplifier, GaN-based Class AD amplifier modules and a choice of 2 finishes. Its full-width design follows HiFi Rose streaming products, with a sturdy aluminium chassis, top-mounted ventilation and dual VU meters.

• Premium build quality
• Tone control dials for Bass and Treble frequencies
• Dual VU meters
• Integrated Amplifier with built-in phono pre-amp
• GaN-based Class AD amplifier modules
• Supplied with remote control

The industrial design is intended for modern listening spaces, while the aluminium chassis provides weight and solidity and helps isolate the internal electronic circuitry from surrounding interference. Vents on the top panel allow heat to dissipate from the amplifier.

The RA280 uses HiFi Rose Class AD, or Advanced D, amplification technology. Class D amplification offers higher efficiency and output, together with improved noise and distortion measurements compared with traditional Class AB designs. Earlier Class D circuits could be limited by their effect on sound quality, so HiFi Rose uses Gallium Nitride FETs rather than the more common Silicon FETs. This creates a high-speed amplification stage with almost no dead time, allowing the amplifier to operate in a manner closer to a pure analogue design.

Each channel has a separate 250W amplifier module at both 4Ω and 8Ω, giving 500W of total system power. The power stage uses a HiFi Rose-designed 2-stage analogue filter. Its LC filter supports the frequency response with -1dB attenuation up to 65kHz and -3dB attenuation in the 85kHz range. It also reduces carrier noise created by the switching operation of Class D amplification across the frequency range, supporting the RA280’s analogue sound signature.

Front-panel Bass and Treble controls provide adjustment of the flat frequency response at 100Hz and 10kHz respectively, with ±15dB gain. The built-in MM phono stage is designed to provide distortion-free pre-amplification for a connected turntable.

Connectivity includes 1 balanced input and 3 unbalanced inputs, together with the built-in phono stage. The RA280 also provides a subwoofer output, trigger connections, a grounding post and speaker output terminals.

Its power supply design was first developed for the flagship RA180 amplifier. Silicon Carbide FET technology provides high voltage support and heat resistance, allowing high output with low heat generation. A 2.5kW class PFC circuit and high-capacity condenser help the supply respond to fluctuations in power delivery. This allows the power supply to respond to the system’s requirements while maintaining clean, natural amplifier operation.