Cayin Jazz 80 Tube Amplifier – Handmade Excellence with Wireless Music Playback
Overview
The Jazz 80 is the latest highlight from Cayin, a masterfully handcrafted tube amplifier that seamlessly blends traditional tube technology with modern wireless music playback. Designed and manufactured to the highest Cayin standards, this premium amplifier is a true testament to superior craftsmanship and performance.
Exquisite Case and Tube Configuration
At first glance, the deep glossy, metallic case makes a striking impression while offering robust protection for the valuable internal electronics. Inside, the Jazz 80 houses a total of eight tubes:
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Four KT88 Output Tubes: Delivering powerful amplification, these tubes form the backbone of the sound performance.
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Preamp and Driver Tubes: In the front row, two 12AX7 tubes are dedicated to voltage amplification of incoming music signals, while two 12AU7 tubes serve as phase splitters and drivers for the KT88s.
A protective cage—painted to match the cabinet—safeguards these high-quality tubes from mechanical damage, and four shock-absorbing feet ensure stability and minimise vibrations.
Wireless Connectivity with Bluetooth and LDAC
Modern versatility is at the forefront of the Jazz 80’s design. A built-in Bluetooth module enables effortless wireless connection with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even televisions. When the Bluetooth input is selected, a small blue LED flashes as the amplifier identifies itself as “Cayin HD BT”, allowing for a quick and seamless pairing. The use of the LDAC codec ensures the wireless transmission of high-resolution audio at speeds of up to 990 kbps—ideal for Android devices running version 8.0 and above.
Ultralinear and Triode Operating Modes
Offering dual operating modes, the Jazz 80 caters to diverse audio preferences:
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Triode Mode: With pre-installed KT88 tubes, the amplifier delivers 2×20 watts, ideal for those who prefer a classic, warm tube sound.
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Ultralinear Mode: For a more dynamic performance, switch to ultralinear mode to enjoy a robust 2×40 watts output.
A conveniently placed toggle switch in front of the two 12AX7 tubes allows for an effortless transition between these modes, while an elaborately designed power supply with a filter choke ensures optimum performance.
Precision Bias Circuit for Perfect Tube Matching
Achieving optimal performance is simple with the Jazz 80’s precision bias circuit. Three toggle switches—one on the left and two on the right—facilitate individual bias adjustment for each output tube via trim potentiometers. The centre toggle switch repurposes the left VU meter into a bias control tool, with separate controls (A1/A2 for the left channel and A3/A4 for the right) ensuring perfectly balanced and calibrated channels.
Intuitive Operation
As with all Cayin products, the Jazz 80 is designed for ease of use. A small switch on the left side panel powers on the amplifier with a gentle click, and a blinking LED on the volume control indicates the soft start as the system warms up. Once the LED remains steadily lit, the unit is fully operational. Input selection can be made via a rotary control on the front panel or the high-quality aluminium remote control, and volume adjustments are easily managed either through the level control on the right or via infrared remote control.
Power Output |
TR: 20W+20W UL: 40W+40W |
Frequency Response |
8Hz ~ 60KHz (-3dB) |
S/N Ratio |
90dB (A-Weighted) |
Input Sensitivity |
300mV (Integrated) |
Max Power Consumption |
280W |
Tube |
12AX7×2, 12AU7×2, KT88x4 |
Headphone Output Impedance |
160~3000 |
Input Connector |
LINE1, LINE2, LINE3, Bluetooth |
High Fidelity DAC Chipset |
ES9018K2M SABRE32 |
Audio Format |
UAT, LDAC, apt‑X, apt‑X HD, apt‑X Low Latency, SBC, AAC |
Dimensions (W×D×H) |
300mm x 385mm x 190mm |