Aries Cerat Impera II Preamplifier
Best high-end preamplifier for audiophiles seeking a powerful, dynamic sound.
The Aries Cerat Impera II Preamplifier, released around 2010, is a high-end audio component that embodies the brand's distinctive approach to sound. It masterfully blends tube and solid-state technologies using its unique Inverted Triode Technology, all housed within a robust chassis built with oversized components. This preamplifier ensures stable performance with its double choke filtered quad power supplies and offers versatile connectivity with five unbalanced inputs standard, expandable to balanced. Its substantial build and advanced design deliver a powerful and dynamic audio experience.
$30000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
36
/ 474
#36 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+336%
Above average
Maximum gain
7
/ x
Who it's for
- System builders pairing with difficult or low-sensitivity power amplifiers
- Audiophiles seeking ultimate sonic realism and holographic soundstage depth
- Purists demanding heirloom-quality construction and vibration-resistant engineering
Who should skip it
- Owners with limited rack space or restricted equipment weight capacity
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking high-end performance without the extreme investment
- Users wanting low-maintenance gear without heat or tube upkeep
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Inverted Triode Technology delivers an incredibly lifelike and uncolored audio presentation.
Dynamic Range
Massive power supply reserves ensure effortless handling of complex musical transients.
Build Integrity
Over-engineered chassis construction sets a new standard for physical component stability.
Signal Purity
Double choke filtering effectively eliminates noise for a pitch-black background.
Connectivity Versatility
Standard unbalanced inputs are excellent, though balanced options require additional configuration.
Bandwidth Precision
Exceptional frequency response ensures total fidelity across the entire audible spectrum.
Key Specs
Maximum gain
x 7
Output stage bandwidth
2Hz - 500KHz
Attenuation method
Multi-tap input transformer
Power supply
Double choke filtered quad power supplies
Inputs
5 unbalanced (balanced as option)
Output
15V RMS max unbalanced
Weight unpacked
110kg (242.5 lbs)
Features
- Unique Inverted Triode Technology
- Hybrid tube and solid-state design
- Double choke filtered power supplies
- Robust construction with oversized parts
- Versatile input options
- High output capability
- Distinctive sound signature
- Heavy-duty build
What customers say
The Aries Cerat Impera II Preamplifier is celebrated as an end-game component, focusing intensely on its monumental sonic performance. Reviewers consistently praise its effortless presentation and ability to create a massive, holographic soundstage. This unit uniquely blends the warmth of tube amplification with the speed and transparency of top solid-state designs. Listeners find it excels at conveying musical scale and emotional weight, offering deep, textured bass and utterly natural note decay for unparalleled realism. While expensive, owners feel the performance justifies the premium investment. Build quality is robust, reflecting its flagship status. Minor practical considerations like size and heat are overshadowed by the resulting sonic purity.
Know before you buy
This proprietary design allows the preamplifier to achieve a unique sonic signature that combines the harmonic richness of tubes with the precision and stability of solid-state components. It is the core of the unit's ability to deliver a highly dynamic and transparent audio performance.
By using a multi-tap transformer for attenuation, the signal path remains extremely clean and avoids the degradation often associated with traditional potentiometers or resistor ladders. This approach preserves the integrity of the audio signal across all volume levels.
The Impera II is exceptionally heavy, so you must ensure your audio rack or shelf is rated to support at least 243 pounds. It is essential to place the unit on a stable, vibration-resistant surface to accommodate its robust, oversized construction.
The unit comes standard with five unbalanced inputs, but it can be configured with balanced inputs as an optional upgrade. If your system relies heavily on balanced connections, ensure you specify this requirement when sourcing your unit.
This advanced power supply design provides exceptional noise rejection and voltage stability. It ensures that the preamplifier remains quiet and composed, even during complex musical passages that demand high output capability.
This extended bandwidth ensures that the preamplifier handles transient signals with extreme speed and accuracy. It prevents phase shifts within the audible spectrum, resulting in a more natural, lifelike soundstage and improved clarity.
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$30000