Keeping in the spirit of all things festive, Musical Fidelity have just updated their stocking-filler-sized ‘V90‘ series of components, and just in time for Christmas.
The V90 range is made up of four dinky, silver boxes each of which measures the same size as a paperback book. Originally launching with just a headphone amplifier, it’s now not far off being a full ready-to-go system. Let’s take a look at the family…
V90 Amplifier
The V90 amplifier is Musical Fidelity’s gift to those that are truly short on space for a separate amp. The V90 pushes a very decent 20 watts per channel, which is more than reasonable given its tiny size. An amplifier of this size should only really offer a limited number of inputs, but with a bit of internal trickery, not only is USB-B is included, but also a 3.5mm analogue line in that also doubles as a 3.5mm optical input. What this means, is that those wanting better sound from a modern TV and don’t fancy a soundbar, need only add a pair of speakers for a great 2.0 system. The USB input, too, is forward thinking in its approach, offering an easy connection straight into a PC or laptop, and taking advantage of its onboard DAC to boost sound quality in the process. Marvellous.
V90 Blu
As the name implies, this is Musical Fidelity’s Bluetooth receiver. Plugging this into a pre-existing Hi-Fi, or the amp mentioned above, will get you a great way to transmit from a mobile, tablet or laptop without using any wires. Also included on board is a more traditional DAC with both optical and coaxial inputs. This allows connectivity from older digital components that can then take advantage of the more up to date decoding on board here.
V90 LPS
For those still very much in the analogue domain, and specifically into their vinyl, the LPS is a straight forward phono stage designed to sit between an amplifier and a turntable. There is compatibility for both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, and again, a slightly long in the tooth amplifier or turntable could really see a benefit from the technology at work.
V90 HPA
The HPA is the original ‘V90‘ component. Given how popular the headphone market is these days, ‘Head-Fi’ers’ as they are known are being spoilt for choice for ways to get the best out of their cans. Capable of driving up anything from 10 – 600 ohm headphones, with both 3.5mm and 6.3mm jack connections you’ll struggle to find a pair that won’t be a match for the HPA. The USB connection that’s featured on the stereo amplifier is included again here, and a set of RCA connections, too.
Call your local branch for availability and to arrange a demonstration.
Author: Chris, Liverpool store
