The Cayin N3 Ultra emerges as the second portable offering in Cayin’s lineup to incorporate the advanced Gen3 Tube Audio Circuit, marking a significant advancement in portable audio technology. This device offers users the unique option of choosing between two distinct tube tones, thereby broadening the auditory experience to new dimensions. Furthermore, this innovative feature extends to all analog outputs, including, but not limited to, the line output. This enhancement opens up a plethora of possibilities for aficionados of vacuum tube setups, allowing for a more versatile and rich listening experience.
The N3 Ultra’s tube tone circuitry is meticulously engineered, featuring a pair of vintage NOS (New Old Stock) Raytheon JAN6418 vacuum tubes. This choice represents a departure from its predecessor, the N3Pro, by applying the distinctive JAN6418 tube tone across all four analog outputs.
These outputs include the 3.5mm single-ended headphone jack, the 4.4mm balanced headphone jack, the 3.5mm single-ended line out, and the 4.4mm balanced line output. Such an all-encompassing application of tube tone to every analog output ensures that users enjoy the rich and warm sound characteristic of vacuum tubes, regardless of their connection preference.
Anticipation for the N3 Ultra is building, with its launch scheduled for April 2024. The retail price, alongside comprehensive specifications and detailed technical descriptions, is expected to be unveiled by the end of March. This announcement is eagerly awaited by audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike, who are keen to discover more about this cutting-edge Digital Audio Player (DAP) and its potential to redefine portable audio excellence.