Cayin CS-55A Tube Integrated Amplifier

The Cayin CS-55A impresses with its looks, sound, and features. This integrated tube amplifier delivers extraordinary value, flexibility, and performance. 

CS55A features four output tubes in Class AB ultra-linear push pull amplification. Choose from EL34 or KT88, both options providing listening enjoyment but with a unique sonic balance.

• EL34: lush, smooth midrange performance for that classic three-dimensional tube warmth
• KT88 (+$300): more punch and power for authoritative, defined bass and extended high frequencies

If you eventually decide to switch from one tube option to another, no problem — simply swap out the tubes and flip the switch on the back of the unit.

CS-55A also allows the output stage to be instantly switched between Triode and Ultralinear modes, again customizing the sound. The difference between these two modes is the number of electrodes used by the tube.

• Triode: only 3 electrodes are used, for transparent and nuanced sound ideal for jazz, classical, and more
• Ultralinear: the tube works at higher power, for bolder sound that excites with pop, rock, and more

This amplifier is at home with both analogue and digital formats. CS-55A includes a built in MM phono section to accommodate turntables, and a built-in high resolution DAC for use with computers, smartphones, and streamers. Via the USB input, the DAC is capable of covering digital audio signals up to 32bit | 384kHz. There’s even a quality headphone amplifier, accessed via the front output, for private listening.

The CS-55A features a fully anodized aluminum front in your choice of black or silver, a vented chassis with a gorgeous finish, hand-made point-to-point wiring, and a soft-start circuit to enhance the life of the toroidal power transformer and output transformers. Combined with audio grade capacitors, carbon film resistors, and ceramic tube sockets, this is an impressive piece of equipment for the price — exactly what Cayin has endeavoured to create since it was founded in 1993.

• Turntable phono input with support for MM pickup
• Built-in DAC, used via the USB 2.0 port with signal support up to 32 bit / 384kHz
• 2x analog inputs (labeled CD and AUX) for other sources
• Headphone amplifier with front output
• Switch between EL34 or KT88 tube mode using the rear switch
• Switch between Triode and Ultralinear mode with a button on the remote
• External user bias adjustment with meter for monitoring
• Choose between 4 ohm or 8 ohm output impedance to work with your speakers
• Hand-made point-to-point internal wiring
• Includes aluminium remote control for volume, mute, input selection, and triode/ultralinear mode switching
• Includes removable snap-on protective tube cage

Dimensions

360mm × 334mm × 180mm | 14.2 x 13.2 x 7.1 in

Weight

17 kg | 38 lbs

Tubes

EL34: 4 x EL34, 2 x 12AU7/ECC82, 2 x 12AX7/ECC83

KT88: 4 x KT88, 2 x 12AU7/ECC82, 2 x 12AX7/ECC83

Frequency Response

EL34: 5Hz – 48kHz (-3dB)

KT88: 5Hz – 44kHz (-3dB)

Power Output

EL34: 20W Triode – 38W Ultralinear

KT88: 22W Triode – 40W Ultralinear

Warranty

2 year parts and labour

90 days on tubes