TECHNOLOGY

BAX™ Bonawatt Adaptive eXpansion

BAX™ means that a BONAWATT device is not limited to the configuration chosen at the time of purchase. It can evolve with the user’s system, changing needs and future audio technologies, while maintaining the integrity of its design, ease of use and distinctive sound.

The BAX™ modular expansion card architecture, originally developed for the Triton amplifier, has since been extended to other BONAWATT products. It allows users to expand their audio system and tailor its functionality to their individual needs. The BAX™ architecture includes modules such as a high quality DAC, a phono preamplifier and a balanced XLR audio input.

BAX™ is designed as an integral part of the device, electronically connected to its power supply, control system and user interface. The BAX™ system operates on a Plug & Play basis, automatically recognizing the installed module and activating the appropriate functions while expanding the device menu.

RZC Transformers: Precision in Every Winding

In a single ended tube amplifier, the output transformer connects the power stage to the loudspeaker. At BONAWATT, we therefore consider its design and construction an integral part of the amplifier’s sound. The windings are produced under specialist supervision using CNC machinery, and each pair undergoes precise measurements of impedance, resistance and capacitance.

We use RZC cut core transformers ordered from a Polish manufacturer and made from Polish Hi B steel with enhanced magnetic permeability. The selection of the core, bobbin and winding configuration is carefully tailored to the specific tube amplifier design.

Here, traditional craftsmanship meets the consistency required for precise low volume production, resulting in a level of performance that can be appreciated in every stereo system.

Hand Assembly Using the Finest Materials

At BONAWATT, precision begins with the careful hand assembly of through hole THT and surface mount SMD components. We work under magnification and microscopes to ensure precise component placement and the quality of every connection.

We use lead free tin, silver and copper solder alloys, selected according to the specific application. Our circuit boards feature copper pads with a nickel layer and a 25 nm immersion gold ENIG finish. This gold finish provides greater durability, excellent conductivity and lower parasitic capacitance.

Careful hand assembly, high quality materials and meticulous human inspection form the foundation of the durability and reliability of our amplifiers, expansion modules and other tube audio products.

PPB™ Parabolic Power Bias

Parabolic Power Bias™ is BONAWATT’s proprietary topology, for which we are preparing patent applications. It reduces THD by controlling the power supply to the power tubes without interfering with the main signal path.

The topology combines active stabilization of the power dissipated by the tubes through an auto bias system that responds to power supply conditions, with multiple local negative and positive feedback loops. The principle can be compared to balancing a ball at the top of a parabola.

It provides low THD in the bass range and reduces fluctuations in tube power dissipation by a factor of 10 compared with conventional cathode bias in a power supply using a rectifier tube. It also reduces sensitivity to power tube ageing and fluctuations in the mains voltage, limiting the sonic impact of power supply sag.

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