Tube PreAmps are readily available in the affordable price category. Aiyima enters the arena and introduces a unique feature: tone controls. Does the inclusion of tone controls give the T1 Pro an edge over its competitors?
I would like to express my gratitude to Aiyima for supplying the T1 Pro for review, which is greatly appreciated. I am also thankful for their patience as the review process took longer than expected.
The Aiyima T1 Pro will set you back $86 from the bank account. You can purchase it here directly from Aiyima.
Purchase:
Aiyima (non-affiliate link):
Amazon (non-affiliate link):
Technical Information:
Chipset: QCC3040+ NE5532P
QCC3040 Bluetooth: Version 5.1, supports AAC, SBC, APTX, APTX-LL, APTX-HD
Electronic tube model: 6186
Replaceable tubes are: 6J1, 6J2, GE5654, 6J3, 6J4, 6J5, 6*1N, 6AK5, etc.
Operational amplifier chip: NE5532P*2
Replaceable operational amplifier chip: OPA2604, OPA2134, LM4562, JRC5532, etc.
Distortion: ≤0.23%
Frequency response range: 20hz- 20khz (±1db)
Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥110db
Treble/bass adjustment range: +6db
Input mode: RCA, Bluetooth
Supported devices: mobile phones, tablets, computers, MP3, TVs, etc. This tube preamplifier does not support phono.
Output mode: 1. Active speaker 2. Amplifier + passive speaker, 3. Active subwoofer
Power supply: DC12V
Dimensions: 102*130*33mm (excluding tube height)
Net weight: 440g
Box/Contents:
The Aiyima T1 Pro is packaged in a typical box featuring a front design with a picture and branding.
The back of the box displays specifications in different languages and contact details.
Upon opening the box, you will find a foam cutout securely housing the T1 Pro, power supply, tubes, and Bluetooth antenna.
Build/Design:
The Aiyima T1 Pro features a modest appearance with its aluminum shell. It is equipped with three prominent knobs on the front for adjusting bass, treble, and volume, along with two switches - one for selecting power, Bluetooth, or RCA, and the other for tone control activation.
The top of the device includes two openings for the 6186 tubes, each accompanied by a fugly blue LED.
On the backside, there is a Bluetooth antenna, RCA input and output ports, a 3.5mm auxiliary output, trigger output, and the DC power input.
The T1 Pro is equipped with rubber feet at the bottom to keep it stable on the desk. Its substantial weight prevents it from shifting easily.
Inputs/Outputs/Trigger:
The T1 Pro features two inputs, RCA and Bluetooth. Pairing with Bluetooth is simple and it retains the connection to the last paired device. I tested the 3.5mm auxiliary output to confirm its functionality, although I did not utilize it further. I did not utilize the trigger out function.
Tubes/OpAmps:
The Aiyima T1 Pro features dual GE 6186 tubes. I didn't have any alternative 6186 tubes for swapping and comparison. However, these tubes are widely used and should be readily available for tube rolling. Regarding the OpAmps, I didn't have a substitute for testing, but they can easily be replaced as they are widely accessible.
Please note that I evaluate products in their original state and do not modify internal components such as OpAmps unless the manufacturer provides alternative options to test during the listening process.
Tone Control/Volume Control/Sound Impressions:
The bass and treble tone controls offer a 6db adjustable range. I experimented with the tone controls extensively while listening. To be frank, I wasn't overly impressed with them, although they did have some impact. The bass tended to introduce bloating and muddiness, while the treble added an abrasive, glassy, glarng sheen.
You have the option to disable the tone control and use the T1 Pro as is. With the tone controls off, the T1 Pro maintains a subtle warmth overall and a neutral leaning sound profile. In my opinion, turning off the tone controls sounds better because it provides a subtle hint of tube warmth. Adjusting the tone controls was a delicate process that varied with each song and was highly dependent on the specific amplifier, speaker, or headphones being paired. In terms of volume adjustment, it can deliver considerable output, but distortion becomes noticeable beyond 50%, becoming unbearable at 75%.
Gear used to Test:
Fosi Audio ZD3
Douk Audio Q11
Fiio k19
Fiio K9
Geshelli Labs J2 DAC
Fiio K11 R2R
Fiio K11
Neohipo DC10
Mytek Libery DAC ii
xDuoo TA-26s
Tor Audio Roger
Geshelli Labs Erish 3 Pro
DROP + SMSL HO150x
DROP THX AAA One
Mytek Liberty THA AAA HPA
Fosi Audio V3 Mono
LE Audio Cattle Pro
Samsung S24 Ultra
Conclusion:
Honestly, I had high expectations for the Aiyima T1 Pro based on comments from friends. However, I was greatly disappointed. The default sound quality is underwhelming, appearing too ordinary and average, similar to other affordable tube preamps. The tone controls result in a confused and messy sound with excessive bloat, muddiness, and harshness. While changing the tubes and OpAmps might enhance the Aiyima's performance, is it worth investing more money to upgrade when you could buy a superior product at a similar price os the T1 Pro plus the cost of those components? I doubt it.
I am Dave the Honest Audiophile. Thanks for reading, and I will catch you in the next one. Don't forget to enjoy the music and that honesty is the BEST policy!
I am not a professional sound engineer, producer, musician, or vocalist, etc. I have not done any scientific research, measurements, or in-depth testing of any kind; just my own listening, comparing and internet reading/research. I have limited, real-life experience with recording, mixing and mastering gear. I have been involved since my teenage years with various churches as an amateur sound booth technician.
Please take these thoughts, opinions and reasonings as just that, my honest audiophile thoughts, opinions and reasonings.
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Audio Terms/Definitions: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/the-honest-audiophile-s-terms-and-definitions-guide
Test Tracks: https://www.thehonestaudiophile.com/post/does-your-music-preference-impact-your-sound-impressions
Amazon playlist: https://music.amazon.com/user-playlists/afb5506483ba4ae3be17c2184797ebb6sune?ref=dm_sh_ycUHvBw1lOkeqCrwPFcc45NAl
Tidal Playlists:Jazz: https://tidal.com/browse/playlist/ea7f58ba-f05d-466f-9714-936d0ab7fa0f
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Mytek Liberty DAC ii: https://mytek.audio/shop/lbrt-dac-ii-287#attr=Mytek Liberty THX HPA: https://mytek.audio/shop/liberty-thx-285#attr=
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Massdrop THX AAA 789:
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