Media streamers and Bluetooth speakers have become must-have high-tech items, especially in 2013. Now, one company is looking to combine the two products into something that cranks out audio using two single-phase vacuum tube pre-amplifiers.
Yes, the Tubecore Duo is a media streamer, a hi-fi Bluetooth speaker -- and it promises to sound awesome as well. It will be able to do that via a custom-built 12AU7 high-gain tube preamp and a solid state amplifier.
The Duo's media system is controlled by an on-board Raspberry Pi and an Arduino-compatible micro-controller, which allows for WiFi and XBMC support. It also means that the Raspberry Pi community will probably come up with some pretty cool hacks and other modifications for the product in the near future.
Besides those pretty tubes, the Duo also has a 100-watt solid state main amp and a mono block 30-watt subwoofer amp. Other features include two 4-inch composite cone 50-watt drivers with machined aluminum horns, a top mounted-aluminum control knob, and a hand-built tone wood case.
"This hybrid system will deliver crystal clear sound quality and has been built on energy efficient, solid state architecture", says Dimitri Furman, TubeCore Audio's co-founder.
TubeCore Audio has been seeking funding for the Duo, via the crowdfunding website Kickstarter. At last peek, the company had exceeded its $20,000 goal, with over $98,000 raised. However, there are still a few days to secure your Duo for $400, which is $199 off the list price. The TubeCore Audio campaign ends on Friday, September 13, 2013. From there, the company plans to ship the first units during the first week of November.
For More Information:
