“The Ianus Essentia monoblock amplifier uses TriodeFet technology but has features that make it unique in the already innovative Ianus range. In contrary to the bigger Geminae model, the Essentia is using the TriodeFet active element in a very different topology, as this is a Single Ended design. It is also performing sonically at the highest level, and even though it is the ‘smaller’ model still weighs in at 80 kilos per channel.” - Stavros Danos, Designer
 
 
The Design Concept
 
The Ianus Essentia amplifier is not only Single Ended, it is also a Single Stage! Incredibly there is no driver stage and no input stage! This extremely simple topology we feel is a breakthrough in amplifier design, and is an elusive design goal for many, including our lab. It is only possible to execute now as we are finally able to use an active element that has the needed specifications for the purpose: Extremely high linearity, high voltage gain, high current gain and very high input impedance.
 
The Essentia, as its name suggests, consists of only one TriodeFet stage, fed directly and used as a simple Single Ended amplifier and uses the “Essence” of the Geminea technology.
 
System flexibility
 
Inputs include our proprietary AC link input, as well (as an option) a Transformer Volume Control (TVC) variable gain input, which is also found on the bigger brother, with 6 level selection. This allows the use of standard gain preamplifiers and high gain (Aries Cerat preamplifiers). Plus a negative feedback level control, with a defeat setting.
Combined with input level setting and negative feedback level setting, we also have a tube bias setting to further tailor the sound. This adds up to a chameleon like character to the Ianus Essentia with a high degree of flexibility in system matching, both sonically and input / output.
 
Triode or solid state?
 
The triode-like transfer curves of the TriodeFet means the Ianus Essentia sounds very much like the very best Single Ended tube amplifier. A superb midrange and treble, accurate timbre and the huge soundstage we expect from big bottle tube amplification.
 
In the case of the Ianus Essentia it is also able to deliver more current, and is essentially maintenance free as the internal tubes used for curve creation are rated at 10,000 hours lifespan. Its unique single stage nature means that it is as sonically transparent as it can get. The amplifier power delivery is 40W (8ohm) full class A.