ASR BASIS EXCLUSIVE

Second-hand, in good condition. Without its original package.

Phono stage with power supply

The ASR Basis Exclusive is one of the most advanced and complex phono preamplifiers on the market, surpassing many power amplifiers in terms of complexity. With a total filter capacity of 1,300,000 µF and an external battery power supply, it ensures an extremely stable and clean power delivery, making every listening experience precise and free of noise.

Unlike other preamplifiers, the ASR Basis Exclusive offers not only the traditional asymmetric cinch connectors but also XLR symmetric inputs, ideal for optimally managing symmetric pickups. The output is equipped with both RCA connectors and balanced XLR outputs, catering to various audio system needs. The two inputs are fitted with separate input stages, which can be adjusted independently. An automatic system, controlled by the signal, switches the device to battery operation when needed, ensuring optimal performance.

The Basis Exclusive uses high-speed operational amplifiers, a technology that contributes to a powerful and precise bass foundation, with high resolution of the most subtle sonic details and a stable spatial image. Each preamplifier is independently configurable via a series of DIP switches that control gain, capacitance, and resistance. An additional switch acts as a "rumble filter" to limit the low-frequency response to 2 Hz or 20 Hz. For MC (moving-coil) cartridges, the load can be adjusted from 5 ohms to 1k ohms, while for MM (moving-magnet) cartridges, the load can be set to 50k ohms in balanced mode and 36k ohms in unbalanced mode. A wide range of loading values can be selected through different switch combinations.

Capacitance adjustment for MM cartridges is limited to 100 pF or 320 pF. A six-switch DIP switch array allows gain selections from 0 dB to +34 dB. This preamplifier offers an extraordinary amount of gain, even for low-output MC cartridges, ensuring unprecedented audio quality. The Basis Exclusive features a low-noise preamplifier, made with Analog Devices op-amps, which handles the adjustable linear gain stage followed by active RIAA equalization.

Regarding power management, the ASR Basis Exclusive uses six 6V 12Ah batteries and 400,000 µF of buffering capacitance. Battery charging is controlled by an optical digital logic circuit and begins automatically when the device is powered off. When fully charged, the battery can power the preamplifier for approximately 60 hours of continuous use. If the batteries discharge, the device automatically switches to line power and begins recharging.

In terms of connectivity and configuration, the ASR Basis Exclusive is extremely versatile. It is equipped with two instantly switchable phono sections, making it particularly useful for those who own multiple turntables or tonearms. The sound quality it delivers is exceptional: the preamplifier reproduces music with crystalline clarity, with spatial definition that stands out for its precision and three-dimensionality. The dynamics are sharp, and the resolution of details is so high that the music seems to emerge from an utterly silent backdrop.

In conclusion, the ASR Basis Exclusive stands out for its transparency, speed, and unique ability to resolve even the finest details without compromising musicality. Its precise and dynamic sound sets a benchmark in the world of phono preamplifiers.

Technical Specifications:

• S/N Ratio: MC > 68 dB, depending on gain
• Frequency response: -3 dB from 3 Hz to 200,000 Hz
• RIAA correction accuracy better than 0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Distortion: from 5 mV to 5 V AC at 100 R at 1 kHz < 0.01%; from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz < 0.05%
• Input impedance: Phono MC: 5-1000 ohms
• Input capacitance: adjustable between 100 pF and 320 pF
• Gain: adjustable via DIP switches from +32 to +64 dB
• Dimensions (l x p x h):
  • ASR Basis main unit: 43 x 37 x 12 cm, 10 kg
  • Power supply: 46 x 33 x 16 cm
• Weight: 26 kg