Vioelectric 281 Limited Edition
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Vioelectric V281 Limited Edition Headphone Amplifier - 2014 Re-design of a Classic Headphone Amplifier
Lights vs No Lights - Notice the addition of the Pentaconn 4.4 TRRS on the left side
Recently I had a pair of Mod House Tungsten’s in house from a friend to listen with. I have 6 sets of IMO are really decent headphones I really like. So, these headphones were not on my radar especially reading about how difficult they are to power. Tungsten’s are rated at 76 and 78 dB/mw depending on the model you have. The Single sided is 76db/mw and the Double sided is 78 dB/mw. Well thinking of eventually purchasing a set of these cans, it was off to the races to find an amp that would drive these very well. Yes I have several headphone amps in house that drove the Tungsten’s well or what I thought was well. But there was that bug to see if any other amp might be a “better” choice for these specific headphones.
Researching I found as normal in this hobby there are zealots that are pretty hard wired to a particular device. With the Tungsten’s this is very true. One of the amps that the Tungsten die-hards really like are several Vioelectric amps, especially the V281 version.
Wonderful Pairing
Why?
Well the V281 seems to have the capability of providing a higher-than-normal voltage at the Tungsten’s 155-ohm impedance. Tungsten owners and others state you need more voltage to really handle the load that Tungsten’s present. Newer Vioelectric designs have trended their max power delivery at a lower impedance value of 50 ohms to better match the “trend” in headphone impedances. Ok. The V281 kept coming up as a really good amp for these headphones because of its high voltage capability.
Being an analytical person with a strong technical background in all things electrical for years. I am always interested what’s in the box, why is it there, what benefit does it provide, the schematic, how much it weighs, yup even that…. then there is the subjective stuff, how does it look, how easy is it to use, does it make me feel like it’s a good or great device? Even the volume knob has an effect on me!
For the Engineering Type
Then there is the cost. Can I afford it? Does it really make sense to spend thousands of dollars on a device. The Vioelectric V281 Limited Edition does cost $2699.99 retail but if you pre-order right now it's only $2499 with FREE shipping. So, there is that.
Power Ratings
Yes, there are other amps from several vendors that cost less and work very well. But often we come to the conclusion that well there is that “one” headphone that a particular amp may or may not work well with. The headphone might be better mated to one amp better than another. Always compromises.
So, we start looking around again for that amp that will make your headphones really shine. More time, more purchases, sell old stuff, buy new stuff. Rinse and repeat.
Well, I will say if I had started out on day 1 many years ago with a V280 or V281 this amp just might be the only amp I would ever require based on ALL the headphone loads out there. Even the hard to drive ones. But I like most, like to buy and try…and God knows how many “jingles” I have spent on amps…over 50 over the past 10+ years. Now based on YOUR headphones you can insert the amp of your choice here. But if you want an amp that indeed covers ALL the bases as well as technology allows the V281 fits that bill here. Yes, Vioelectric has moved on to the later SMD based V5 product type. But the V281 for its age has weathered the test of time rather well. So well in that many folks have requested Vioelectric to make the V281 again. Hmmm. And they have re-birthed the V281 into this new and improved V281 LE or Limited Edition. They agreed to make an initial 100 units. These all sold out. We are now in a second order of 100 units. Power Holdings in the US is the exclusive dealer for them. They are available for pre-order at the above-mentioned price. The LE version is an updated version of the original 2014 design. The wonderful core amp V200 components are intact! More below.
New V281 LE vs 2014 V281 - Notice Beveled Edge and Silver Feet
An interesting aside story told to me by Power Holdings (Arthur), was this re-creation of a 2014 discrete design came about on a casual conversation from a customer that really liked the original V281. After 5 years of being out of production asking a company to go back in time after they have converted to newer SMD technology and make the V281 again. Well, the German company was really excited about this solicitation and seemed to want to start making 100 units asap! Arthur posted and asked potential customers what new features or options folks would want in a updated V281. The die was cast, updates etc. were agreed upon and the V281 LE was birthed. Again all 100 of the initial run were sold. Which leads us to the present second run of 100. At present 10 are pre-sold and 90 remain orderable.
Power Holdings did have a few DEMO units for sale at even a further reduced cost and I snatched one up. (I really like amps) ….LOL.
Ok back to the real reason for this purchase, which was to eventually drive my Tungsten’s “well”. But with the delivery dates of them going out for several many months and having several sets of cans here that would be good test mules for this amp IMO and the availability of a DEMO unit at a reduced cost I could not pass this one up. Bought from Power Holdings. Arrived in a few days, like brand new. Worked right out of the box. More on this later.
What I have discovered is that there are many amps that drive my existing headphones very well, cost less and still make me smile. I have reviewed many on this website over time. I am not dismissing them. All have good and not so good points. But honestly the V281 LE especially this new edition is all the amp I would ever need. It’s really that good.
So, what makes the V281 LE good or great? How has the LE version been improved? Well, read on.
According to Arthur at Power Holdings and Vioelectric here is the list of attributes for the V281 LE:
V281 Reissue: V281 Limited Edition & New Added Features:
New Additions on Rear Panel - Added Line Gain Switches - Second RCA Inputs
On the cost front. When the original V281 was introduced like 11 years ago, the price with the relay volume options was $2800. Yes, there is more competition today, but taking into account hyper inflation and added features to the limited edition at a lower $2699 look inside and see what you’re getting. This is not a Chi-Fi knock off. Sadly, there is a knock off out there. The V281 LE is not an extremely neutral analytical sounding amplifier which the market is full of now-a-days. Specs on paper may be better, sure nice. But many do not have the sound signature that the V281 LE has. And after weeks with this demo unit, its sound signature is very good. I mean very good.
So, what’s inside the box? Why would they produce an older design like this V281 LE, based on a 2014 design?
Background in Vioelectric first: V200 launched in 2009, an advanced V100 which was based on the Lake People G100. (Vioelectric being a sub-brand of Lake People). With all the names and products, the products produced by Lake People can be confusing. The main difference between the V100 and V200 series amplifiers, both being discrete designs are basically 4 transistors in the V100 and 8 in the V200 for their power stages. The V200 has more sophisticated circuitry. The design is a THT one. THT being Thru Hole Tech Technology. A fancy acronym for discrete components soldered in a PCB via inserting their leads into drilled holes in the PCB. Yes, they have op amps but they are relegated to control voltages and pair the input and outputs for gain. One exception was the V181 which indeed used 8 transistors. The V200 8-transistor amplifier circuit is a bedrock of every Vioelectric amp with some minor alterations. It’s referred to “V200 Technology” according to Fred Reim CEO and chief designer at Lake People. The latest offerings from Lake People and Vioelectric started in 2020, started using SMD devices to build the famous V200 power modules. This led to a range of new products with a different form factor. So, there is a discussion of how the older discrete THT products sound vs the newer SMD based power module amps from Lake People. Some state the older discrete amps like the V281 are more “tube” like vs the SMD choices are a bit more clear and less warm, and the specs are better with the SMD components. (Well, here we go again). Then there is the newer Nimbus series, which is their TOTL series, which utilize optimized components, top grade stuff.
So why the re-issue, why not buy the newer “stuff”? Well, the subjective part of many of us are stuck in the past, and like the sound or design of the early versions (this could be said with a lot of audio stuff. Aka tubes, vinyl, reel to reel tape etc.).
Hence the many requests from audio folks that have asked for Vioelectric to make more V281 amplifiers. Well, they listened and they made 100 V281 LE versions. The V281 updated with some goodies that many of us have asked for mentioned above. You can thank Arthur at Power Holdings for this. Its capability to produce more power at higher impedances and keeping the sound signature that so many like and all the other upgrades is a really enticing headphone amplifier offering. To me the cosmetics are awesome, the V281 LE looks like it belongs in a jet fighter cockpit. And I am a pilot.
Note: There is no guarantee of more units being made after this second run of 100 units. Think about this if you're considering this type of amplifier or have Tungsten’s, HE-6SE or Susvara headphones that are not the easiest to drive.
Back to what’s inside the box:
Well, it’s a balanced amplifier with gold plated input connectors and unbalanced inputs with gold plated connectors. The LE has added a second unbalanced set of inputs that are easily selected on the front panel via pushbutton. The outputs have gold plated connectors. Rear mounted dip switches are available for changing the gain as required (to allow for mid positioning of the vol pot). “Independent channel design” which means you have basically 2 Vioelectric V200 amps inside. Each having its own separate pcb, 8 transistors heat sinked, and bunch of electrolytics. 36,000 uf of filtering caps, yup and this is not a speaker amp! Lovely. In the V281 LE User’s Manual, it states there are actually 4 discrete amplifiers inside with 8 discrete transistors in each channel. This is a mono bloc headphone amp in a single enclosure. Doesn’t run hot at all. Pleasantly warm to the touch. A BIG new improvement is a 128 – Step reed-relay volume control. Steps are 0.8 db. Gone is the noisy clicking sound but a much softer sound when changing levels. Dead quiet when on a volume level to your liking. This caught me by surprise until I was educated as to what was going on here…explained in threads at Head-Fi by Fred himself. A balance control using an Alps RK27 pot. Gimmicky at first, but as I experimented with it, I was surprised at how it actually could clarify many recordings and I could play mix engineer! A remote control comes with the unit that allows for a “Motorized” volume, input/output selection, and mute. (A motorized pot used to be an option and additional cost). High quality MKP capacitators in the signal path. 2 Discrete – V200 design power amps with 8 transistors per channel. 16 total. Silver plated headphone jacks, the standard ¼” SE, a 4 pin XLR and a new 4.4mm Pentacom jack. Delayed relay-based headphone output cut-off. No clicks or pops when shutting down etc. 2 toroidal transformers 25 and 15 Watts. Those two toroidal transformers wing at +/- 30 volts. Switchable ground lift if needed. The case is a rugged aluminum, black anodized. NO SILVER. The front and rear plates are solid machined black anodized and laser engraved. No internal DAC option. Looks like it belongs in a F22 jet cockpit. A very well-built unit.
Its basically a discrete design, but there are high quality op amps and high quality MKP capacitors in the signal path. A look inside shows you many THT components. Discrete. Yes.
The addition of a second set of RCA inputs is really a nice addition. Having more than one dac this is great to switch and compare. So, you have unbalanced and balanced inputs with selectable gain settings via rear mounted DIP switches. You now get the ability to adjust via DIP switches the LINE OUT GAIN as well a welcome addition. You can select pre-post or fixed variable settings for the LINE out. This gives you some flexibility in your setup. Do you want to use the V281 LE volume control or not. Easily switch with buttons on the front panel.
The amp works well with SE inputs. BUT this amp is designed as a fully balanced amplifier…so USE the balanced outputs please. You’re paying for 2 SE amps, so why not use them!!! Its best suited to be used with balanced headphones. Gosh it works so well in this manner.
So, you get upgraded internals with the V281 LE but the “golden age V200 THT” discrete power amp modules that many really like even over the newer SMD design are the core of its design.
The remote that comes with the unit is a thin battery powered aluminum infrared device. Calls for a CR 2032 battery. Allows for use of the motorized pot. A mute function that is only available with the remote. You can select any of the three analog inputs. The “Head-Output” and “Line-Output” buttons allow the front mounted outputs or rear mounted LINE outputs to be deactivated.
Open up the box, inside view:
Tons of Stuff! 16 Transistors Heat Sinked
Birds Eye View
Definitely Discrete - Old School !
Operating the V281 Se is indeed easy. I turned the massive volume knob and feel is good. Using the remote for volume control is a real treat as well. It moves very smoothly and with music playing there is not audible noise from the reed relays. If you pause you can hear slight noises as the Knob moves. This is as designed. Compared to one of my other remote volume products where is really annoying this is very subtle. Nice upgrade here.
Which leads into how does it sound. Technically an amp should not sound. Just provide the designed power over a wide variety of frequencies and loads. The proverbial straight wire with gain.
Headphones used: Planars I use Rad 0’s, D8000 Pros, HE 1000Se and Tungsten’s. Dynamics used are ZMF Verite Closed, ADX 5000, HD 650.
Dacs Used: Soekris 2541, Holo Cyan 2, Schiit Gungnir 2. Schiit Modius E.
Competition!
Well, its a lot like my even more expensive Pass Labs HPA-1 and those costs even more, a lot more. Its similar in sound as my Schiit Mjolnir 3 Class A amp which costs less. The V281 LE sound wise being similar, i.e. a tad on the warm side which I really like, both have less power and had a hard time driving the Tungsten’s here to the levels I like. The overall build quality IMO is in the same league as the Pass Labs amp. Pricey yeah compared to a Schiit Midgard at $219 for sure or even a Schiit Mjolnir3. The Midgard for normal listening levels drove the Tungsten’s well. But the V281 took it to the next level…. seriously. So why spend so much money on V281 LE. Read on.
With the power delivery optimized for 100 ohms, its suits those hard to drive higher impedance headphones. Extremely well. ZMF Verite’s at 300 ohms. Wow. Power, control of drivers…instant goodness. ADX 5000’s are 420 ohms…holy crap good for another “lowly” dynamic headphone. I recently posted that out of all my headphone experiences over the years that the ADX5000 with the V281 was one of the best ever for overall clarity, no veil, accurate, tight accurate bass, no bloated bass, Ivory piano keys OMG good. These headphones are considered by many as really trebly. They are described as light and airy, what I would state are what the HD8xx series “should” have been. Lighter and hardly any “veil”. Paired with this amp its indeed IMO a very, very good setup. Mediocre source material need not apply!
In my headphone analysis I will not go into really deep specifics on how bass, mids and treble sounds. You can go to each individual headphones review and read the about the technicalities of these cans if you like. Basically, I will tell you in a broad stroke if the pairing is good or bad. YMMV.
Next up are HD 650’s the lowest cost headphone I have. With Soekris 2541 balanced outs to V281 LE and using the SE ¼ headphone jack the result is nothing North of sublime. For an older can, they still rock in their own right. Back and forth with SE and Balanced, no real discernable difference to my ears. Both excellent. Gain -18db or -12dB.
Next up are ZMF Verite Closed Backs: Exceptional warm sounding headphones that have a sweet sound. -18 dB on gain to have volume pot at noon. Much easier to drive over Tungsten’s. Tight controlled bass.
Next up are Rad 0’s: A tad more difficult headphone to drive for me. With the V281 LE there is a more open spacious sound with these planars. An easy load for this amp. Gain -18 or -12 dB. Depending on source.
Next up are Tungsten’s: Only having the Tungsten’s in house a few days. IMO this is one of the best, if not the best combination I have ever heard. Yes. That good. Tungsten’s are very special. With the V281 LE the power available (voltage) the Tungsten’s come alive in a good way. Exceptional clarity. You get a wonderful musical sound. Without the cost and NOS tube crazy (IMO) black hole experience. Other amps are ok as stated above. But this combination is worth the price of admission. It’s that good. + 6dB on gain to have volume pot at noon for most music. 0 dB is also acceptable.
Next up are D8000 Pros: Another exceptional headphone. Expensive. Tonally accurate. Easy to drive. They come alive with the V291 LE. -6db for mid volume position. Tungsten like, just a tad warmer to me.
Next up are HE 1000Se’s. No issues at all driving these. All the typical Susvara like soundstage is present at a much lower price point IMO. Delicate sound but very light and airy. Beautiful mids etc. For those that think these are bass light, listen to Tom Jones, Praise and Blame CD and the “Ain’t No Grave” you with this amp you will hear solid wonderful bass. They way IMO think it should sound. -18 dB gain for mid-scale volume.
Conclusion:
The end result of all these headphones with widely varying impedances and sensitivity ratings has told me this amp can handle anything out there in headphone land and VERY well. (Except electrostatics etc.). The nut of all this is that using the V281 LE with any of my headphones the result was it made the listening experience “better”. In some case a whole lot better. These would be with the Tungstens, ADX5000’s, HD 650’s, ZMF Verite Closed Backs. Higher impedance cans. My other headphones, D8000 Pro, Rad 0, He1000 Se’s worked very well close to the other amps, but there is that V200 THT magic here that is really a subjective one. In every case all headphones exhibited all that they could be. There were no bad pairings. Yup that good.
If you have hard to drive headphones that are not super sensitive this is your amplifier. Even if you don’t have hard to drive headphones someday you might. Think of that. Smile.
So this could indeed be an amplifier to handle what you have in house and future purchases? Yes. It makes any transducer you plug in it just work very well. Simply amazing for a 2014 design! Congratulations to Vioelectric in resurrecting an oldie but a goodie with modern updates!!
Alex
Lights vs No Lights - Notice the addition of the Pentaconn 4.4 TRRS on the left side
Recently I had a pair of Mod House Tungsten’s in house from a friend to listen with. I have 6 sets of IMO are really decent headphones I really like. So, these headphones were not on my radar especially reading about how difficult they are to power. Tungsten’s are rated at 76 and 78 dB/mw depending on the model you have. The Single sided is 76db/mw and the Double sided is 78 dB/mw. Well thinking of eventually purchasing a set of these cans, it was off to the races to find an amp that would drive these very well. Yes I have several headphone amps in house that drove the Tungsten’s well or what I thought was well. But there was that bug to see if any other amp might be a “better” choice for these specific headphones.
Researching I found as normal in this hobby there are zealots that are pretty hard wired to a particular device. With the Tungsten’s this is very true. One of the amps that the Tungsten die-hards really like are several Vioelectric amps, especially the V281 version.
Wonderful Pairing
Why?
Well the V281 seems to have the capability of providing a higher-than-normal voltage at the Tungsten’s 155-ohm impedance. Tungsten owners and others state you need more voltage to really handle the load that Tungsten’s present. Newer Vioelectric designs have trended their max power delivery at a lower impedance value of 50 ohms to better match the “trend” in headphone impedances. Ok. The V281 kept coming up as a really good amp for these headphones because of its high voltage capability.
Being an analytical person with a strong technical background in all things electrical for years. I am always interested what’s in the box, why is it there, what benefit does it provide, the schematic, how much it weighs, yup even that…. then there is the subjective stuff, how does it look, how easy is it to use, does it make me feel like it’s a good or great device? Even the volume knob has an effect on me!
For the Engineering Type
Then there is the cost. Can I afford it? Does it really make sense to spend thousands of dollars on a device. The Vioelectric V281 Limited Edition does cost $2699.99 retail but if you pre-order right now it's only $2499 with FREE shipping. So, there is that.
Power Ratings
Yes, there are other amps from several vendors that cost less and work very well. But often we come to the conclusion that well there is that “one” headphone that a particular amp may or may not work well with. The headphone might be better mated to one amp better than another. Always compromises.
So, we start looking around again for that amp that will make your headphones really shine. More time, more purchases, sell old stuff, buy new stuff. Rinse and repeat.
Well, I will say if I had started out on day 1 many years ago with a V280 or V281 this amp just might be the only amp I would ever require based on ALL the headphone loads out there. Even the hard to drive ones. But I like most, like to buy and try…and God knows how many “jingles” I have spent on amps…over 50 over the past 10+ years. Now based on YOUR headphones you can insert the amp of your choice here. But if you want an amp that indeed covers ALL the bases as well as technology allows the V281 fits that bill here. Yes, Vioelectric has moved on to the later SMD based V5 product type. But the V281 for its age has weathered the test of time rather well. So well in that many folks have requested Vioelectric to make the V281 again. Hmmm. And they have re-birthed the V281 into this new and improved V281 LE or Limited Edition. They agreed to make an initial 100 units. These all sold out. We are now in a second order of 100 units. Power Holdings in the US is the exclusive dealer for them. They are available for pre-order at the above-mentioned price. The LE version is an updated version of the original 2014 design. The wonderful core amp V200 components are intact! More below.
New V281 LE vs 2014 V281 - Notice Beveled Edge and Silver Feet
An interesting aside story told to me by Power Holdings (Arthur), was this re-creation of a 2014 discrete design came about on a casual conversation from a customer that really liked the original V281. After 5 years of being out of production asking a company to go back in time after they have converted to newer SMD technology and make the V281 again. Well, the German company was really excited about this solicitation and seemed to want to start making 100 units asap! Arthur posted and asked potential customers what new features or options folks would want in a updated V281. The die was cast, updates etc. were agreed upon and the V281 LE was birthed. Again all 100 of the initial run were sold. Which leads us to the present second run of 100. At present 10 are pre-sold and 90 remain orderable.
Power Holdings did have a few DEMO units for sale at even a further reduced cost and I snatched one up. (I really like amps) ….LOL.
Ok back to the real reason for this purchase, which was to eventually drive my Tungsten’s “well”. But with the delivery dates of them going out for several many months and having several sets of cans here that would be good test mules for this amp IMO and the availability of a DEMO unit at a reduced cost I could not pass this one up. Bought from Power Holdings. Arrived in a few days, like brand new. Worked right out of the box. More on this later.
What I have discovered is that there are many amps that drive my existing headphones very well, cost less and still make me smile. I have reviewed many on this website over time. I am not dismissing them. All have good and not so good points. But honestly the V281 LE especially this new edition is all the amp I would ever need. It’s really that good.
So, what makes the V281 LE good or great? How has the LE version been improved? Well, read on.
According to Arthur at Power Holdings and Vioelectric here is the list of attributes for the V281 LE:
V281 Reissue: V281 Limited Edition & New Added Features:
- The circuit design will be the same as the original for that iconic Vioelectric sound signature (Tube like warmth with a powerful tight bass punch).
- The case will be the same form factor and design as the original. 170mm W x 112mm H x 320mm, D/7” W x 4.4: H x 12.6” D
- Measurements: 170mm W x 112mm H x 320mm D / 7" W x 4.4" H x 12.6" D
- Smooth brushed black anodized aluminum. No more gray Nextel coating that chipped off).
- The front plate will have Light-Edge milling (45-degree silver polished edge).
- The feet will be silver polished aluminum.
- The knobs will have white inlaid indicator marks (like all the new models).
- The addition of a 4.4 Pentacom balanced headphone connector (Along with the 4 pin XLR balanced and 6.3 unbalanced connectors).
- A second RCA unbalanced input (Now with 2 x RCA unbalanced inputs and 1 x XLR balanced input).
- A relay volume as standard with REED relays 128 steps (no more mechanical clicking when adjusting the volume).
- Additional gain setting of +/- 18db (now with three gain settings +/- 6, 12, & 18 dB).
- The input voltage can be set to 115v or 230v via an internal switch (just remove the top cover to access).
- The new style small aluminum remote control included
New Additions on Rear Panel - Added Line Gain Switches - Second RCA Inputs
On the cost front. When the original V281 was introduced like 11 years ago, the price with the relay volume options was $2800. Yes, there is more competition today, but taking into account hyper inflation and added features to the limited edition at a lower $2699 look inside and see what you’re getting. This is not a Chi-Fi knock off. Sadly, there is a knock off out there. The V281 LE is not an extremely neutral analytical sounding amplifier which the market is full of now-a-days. Specs on paper may be better, sure nice. But many do not have the sound signature that the V281 LE has. And after weeks with this demo unit, its sound signature is very good. I mean very good.
So, what’s inside the box? Why would they produce an older design like this V281 LE, based on a 2014 design?
Background in Vioelectric first: V200 launched in 2009, an advanced V100 which was based on the Lake People G100. (Vioelectric being a sub-brand of Lake People). With all the names and products, the products produced by Lake People can be confusing. The main difference between the V100 and V200 series amplifiers, both being discrete designs are basically 4 transistors in the V100 and 8 in the V200 for their power stages. The V200 has more sophisticated circuitry. The design is a THT one. THT being Thru Hole Tech Technology. A fancy acronym for discrete components soldered in a PCB via inserting their leads into drilled holes in the PCB. Yes, they have op amps but they are relegated to control voltages and pair the input and outputs for gain. One exception was the V181 which indeed used 8 transistors. The V200 8-transistor amplifier circuit is a bedrock of every Vioelectric amp with some minor alterations. It’s referred to “V200 Technology” according to Fred Reim CEO and chief designer at Lake People. The latest offerings from Lake People and Vioelectric started in 2020, started using SMD devices to build the famous V200 power modules. This led to a range of new products with a different form factor. So, there is a discussion of how the older discrete THT products sound vs the newer SMD based power module amps from Lake People. Some state the older discrete amps like the V281 are more “tube” like vs the SMD choices are a bit more clear and less warm, and the specs are better with the SMD components. (Well, here we go again). Then there is the newer Nimbus series, which is their TOTL series, which utilize optimized components, top grade stuff.
So why the re-issue, why not buy the newer “stuff”? Well, the subjective part of many of us are stuck in the past, and like the sound or design of the early versions (this could be said with a lot of audio stuff. Aka tubes, vinyl, reel to reel tape etc.).
Hence the many requests from audio folks that have asked for Vioelectric to make more V281 amplifiers. Well, they listened and they made 100 V281 LE versions. The V281 updated with some goodies that many of us have asked for mentioned above. You can thank Arthur at Power Holdings for this. Its capability to produce more power at higher impedances and keeping the sound signature that so many like and all the other upgrades is a really enticing headphone amplifier offering. To me the cosmetics are awesome, the V281 LE looks like it belongs in a jet fighter cockpit. And I am a pilot.
Note: There is no guarantee of more units being made after this second run of 100 units. Think about this if you're considering this type of amplifier or have Tungsten’s, HE-6SE or Susvara headphones that are not the easiest to drive.
Back to what’s inside the box:
Well, it’s a balanced amplifier with gold plated input connectors and unbalanced inputs with gold plated connectors. The LE has added a second unbalanced set of inputs that are easily selected on the front panel via pushbutton. The outputs have gold plated connectors. Rear mounted dip switches are available for changing the gain as required (to allow for mid positioning of the vol pot). “Independent channel design” which means you have basically 2 Vioelectric V200 amps inside. Each having its own separate pcb, 8 transistors heat sinked, and bunch of electrolytics. 36,000 uf of filtering caps, yup and this is not a speaker amp! Lovely. In the V281 LE User’s Manual, it states there are actually 4 discrete amplifiers inside with 8 discrete transistors in each channel. This is a mono bloc headphone amp in a single enclosure. Doesn’t run hot at all. Pleasantly warm to the touch. A BIG new improvement is a 128 – Step reed-relay volume control. Steps are 0.8 db. Gone is the noisy clicking sound but a much softer sound when changing levels. Dead quiet when on a volume level to your liking. This caught me by surprise until I was educated as to what was going on here…explained in threads at Head-Fi by Fred himself. A balance control using an Alps RK27 pot. Gimmicky at first, but as I experimented with it, I was surprised at how it actually could clarify many recordings and I could play mix engineer! A remote control comes with the unit that allows for a “Motorized” volume, input/output selection, and mute. (A motorized pot used to be an option and additional cost). High quality MKP capacitators in the signal path. 2 Discrete – V200 design power amps with 8 transistors per channel. 16 total. Silver plated headphone jacks, the standard ¼” SE, a 4 pin XLR and a new 4.4mm Pentacom jack. Delayed relay-based headphone output cut-off. No clicks or pops when shutting down etc. 2 toroidal transformers 25 and 15 Watts. Those two toroidal transformers wing at +/- 30 volts. Switchable ground lift if needed. The case is a rugged aluminum, black anodized. NO SILVER. The front and rear plates are solid machined black anodized and laser engraved. No internal DAC option. Looks like it belongs in a F22 jet cockpit. A very well-built unit.
Its basically a discrete design, but there are high quality op amps and high quality MKP capacitors in the signal path. A look inside shows you many THT components. Discrete. Yes.
The addition of a second set of RCA inputs is really a nice addition. Having more than one dac this is great to switch and compare. So, you have unbalanced and balanced inputs with selectable gain settings via rear mounted DIP switches. You now get the ability to adjust via DIP switches the LINE OUT GAIN as well a welcome addition. You can select pre-post or fixed variable settings for the LINE out. This gives you some flexibility in your setup. Do you want to use the V281 LE volume control or not. Easily switch with buttons on the front panel.
The amp works well with SE inputs. BUT this amp is designed as a fully balanced amplifier…so USE the balanced outputs please. You’re paying for 2 SE amps, so why not use them!!! Its best suited to be used with balanced headphones. Gosh it works so well in this manner.
So, you get upgraded internals with the V281 LE but the “golden age V200 THT” discrete power amp modules that many really like even over the newer SMD design are the core of its design.
The remote that comes with the unit is a thin battery powered aluminum infrared device. Calls for a CR 2032 battery. Allows for use of the motorized pot. A mute function that is only available with the remote. You can select any of the three analog inputs. The “Head-Output” and “Line-Output” buttons allow the front mounted outputs or rear mounted LINE outputs to be deactivated.
Open up the box, inside view:
Tons of Stuff! 16 Transistors Heat Sinked
Birds Eye View
Definitely Discrete - Old School !
Operating the V281 Se is indeed easy. I turned the massive volume knob and feel is good. Using the remote for volume control is a real treat as well. It moves very smoothly and with music playing there is not audible noise from the reed relays. If you pause you can hear slight noises as the Knob moves. This is as designed. Compared to one of my other remote volume products where is really annoying this is very subtle. Nice upgrade here.
Which leads into how does it sound. Technically an amp should not sound. Just provide the designed power over a wide variety of frequencies and loads. The proverbial straight wire with gain.
Headphones used: Planars I use Rad 0’s, D8000 Pros, HE 1000Se and Tungsten’s. Dynamics used are ZMF Verite Closed, ADX 5000, HD 650.
Dacs Used: Soekris 2541, Holo Cyan 2, Schiit Gungnir 2. Schiit Modius E.
Competition!
Well, its a lot like my even more expensive Pass Labs HPA-1 and those costs even more, a lot more. Its similar in sound as my Schiit Mjolnir 3 Class A amp which costs less. The V281 LE sound wise being similar, i.e. a tad on the warm side which I really like, both have less power and had a hard time driving the Tungsten’s here to the levels I like. The overall build quality IMO is in the same league as the Pass Labs amp. Pricey yeah compared to a Schiit Midgard at $219 for sure or even a Schiit Mjolnir3. The Midgard for normal listening levels drove the Tungsten’s well. But the V281 took it to the next level…. seriously. So why spend so much money on V281 LE. Read on.
With the power delivery optimized for 100 ohms, its suits those hard to drive higher impedance headphones. Extremely well. ZMF Verite’s at 300 ohms. Wow. Power, control of drivers…instant goodness. ADX 5000’s are 420 ohms…holy crap good for another “lowly” dynamic headphone. I recently posted that out of all my headphone experiences over the years that the ADX5000 with the V281 was one of the best ever for overall clarity, no veil, accurate, tight accurate bass, no bloated bass, Ivory piano keys OMG good. These headphones are considered by many as really trebly. They are described as light and airy, what I would state are what the HD8xx series “should” have been. Lighter and hardly any “veil”. Paired with this amp its indeed IMO a very, very good setup. Mediocre source material need not apply!
In my headphone analysis I will not go into really deep specifics on how bass, mids and treble sounds. You can go to each individual headphones review and read the about the technicalities of these cans if you like. Basically, I will tell you in a broad stroke if the pairing is good or bad. YMMV.
Next up are HD 650’s the lowest cost headphone I have. With Soekris 2541 balanced outs to V281 LE and using the SE ¼ headphone jack the result is nothing North of sublime. For an older can, they still rock in their own right. Back and forth with SE and Balanced, no real discernable difference to my ears. Both excellent. Gain -18db or -12dB.
Next up are ZMF Verite Closed Backs: Exceptional warm sounding headphones that have a sweet sound. -18 dB on gain to have volume pot at noon. Much easier to drive over Tungsten’s. Tight controlled bass.
Next up are Rad 0’s: A tad more difficult headphone to drive for me. With the V281 LE there is a more open spacious sound with these planars. An easy load for this amp. Gain -18 or -12 dB. Depending on source.
Next up are Tungsten’s: Only having the Tungsten’s in house a few days. IMO this is one of the best, if not the best combination I have ever heard. Yes. That good. Tungsten’s are very special. With the V281 LE the power available (voltage) the Tungsten’s come alive in a good way. Exceptional clarity. You get a wonderful musical sound. Without the cost and NOS tube crazy (IMO) black hole experience. Other amps are ok as stated above. But this combination is worth the price of admission. It’s that good. + 6dB on gain to have volume pot at noon for most music. 0 dB is also acceptable.
Next up are D8000 Pros: Another exceptional headphone. Expensive. Tonally accurate. Easy to drive. They come alive with the V291 LE. -6db for mid volume position. Tungsten like, just a tad warmer to me.
Next up are HE 1000Se’s. No issues at all driving these. All the typical Susvara like soundstage is present at a much lower price point IMO. Delicate sound but very light and airy. Beautiful mids etc. For those that think these are bass light, listen to Tom Jones, Praise and Blame CD and the “Ain’t No Grave” you with this amp you will hear solid wonderful bass. They way IMO think it should sound. -18 dB gain for mid-scale volume.
Conclusion:
The end result of all these headphones with widely varying impedances and sensitivity ratings has told me this amp can handle anything out there in headphone land and VERY well. (Except electrostatics etc.). The nut of all this is that using the V281 LE with any of my headphones the result was it made the listening experience “better”. In some case a whole lot better. These would be with the Tungstens, ADX5000’s, HD 650’s, ZMF Verite Closed Backs. Higher impedance cans. My other headphones, D8000 Pro, Rad 0, He1000 Se’s worked very well close to the other amps, but there is that V200 THT magic here that is really a subjective one. In every case all headphones exhibited all that they could be. There were no bad pairings. Yup that good.
If you have hard to drive headphones that are not super sensitive this is your amplifier. Even if you don’t have hard to drive headphones someday you might. Think of that. Smile.
So this could indeed be an amplifier to handle what you have in house and future purchases? Yes. It makes any transducer you plug in it just work very well. Simply amazing for a 2014 design! Congratulations to Vioelectric in resurrecting an oldie but a goodie with modern updates!!
Alex
Attachments
Menkau-ra
Great review, Alex!
adydula
Thanks 
Death_Block
Excellent. I might return the V550 for this little brother. It’s a bit overkill than I need. This V281looks like a better match
