OCTAVE : Jubilee Preamp (Black)
The reference preamp.

With constant internal developments since 1998, the Jubilee Preamp still represents the optimum sound of Octave preamplifiers. The precision balancing stage using tube technology, the discretely constructed output stage using semiconductor technology and the complex zero-feedback circuit: in no other Octave amplifier was made such an effort into creating a unique sound experience.

In these fast-moving times, the Jubilee line is certainly one of the most unique high-end offerings on the global audio market. Its story began in 1998 when Octave first presented the Jubilee Preamp, a model conceived with a revolutionary amplifier layout, an incomparable design and uncompromising material selection. With the continued evolution of the Jubilee line, Andreas Hofmann has realized his dream of developing and crafting independent amplifier concepts without limitations - designs that unveil the full sonic and technical possibilities of tube amplifier technology.

The Jubilee models remain as the pinnacle of Octave amplifier technology and their sophisticated circuit designs continue to be developed and refined in fine detail to this day.

Technically, the Jubilee preamplifier differs from all other Octave amplifier models primarily in three special features: the precision balancing stage utilizing tube technology; the discrete output stage featuring semiconductors; and zero feedback. Such an innovative and advanced circuit concept had previously never been implemented into any other Octave model.

The precision balancing stage serves to provide an absolutely constant phase and amplitude symmetrical signal generation. This ensures that no phase or time error will occur between phase and anti-phase of the balanced output signal. The perfect symmetrical signal controls balanced power amplifiers with an unprecedented level of precision. The performance potential of such balanced power amp designs is thus able to be experienced at the highest level in terms of sound.

While the amplifier and balancing stages are constructed with a pure tube circuit, a feedback-free unity gain power buffer employing semiconductor technology was incorporated into the output stage. This enables the Jubilee preamp to exhibit an extremely low-impedance output with high current delivery capability. The tube circuit is therefore relieved of the hard work and can simply perform completely unhindered - delivering pure tube sound.

Zero feedback, the optimum for sonic purity: this technology is rarely utilized in pre-amp stages as the concept is extremely difficult to implement. Zero feedback for preamplifiers requires an almost perfect power supply, with extreme stability, and with low noise and low hum to the limit of what is technically possible. But this effort pays off sonically in terms of delivering unshakable calm, effortlessness and unprecedented fine detail. (For those interested in technical details, see the text box at the end of the page).

The essence of a Jubilee model is and remains the search for the perfect sound, which is pursued without compromise on all technical and aesthetic levels. The harmonious interaction of all parts of an amplifier leads to the Jubilee preamplifier being “the most musical preamplifier on the entire world market” (Quote Stereo 04/02)