Housing and optics

The two units of the Pearl 30i can be placed either on top of each other or side by side. The tower configuration showcases the unique design of the new Cayin flagship. The black front panel and the fan-shaped paneling of the amplifier section give the Pearl 30i a look that is immediately memorable and conveys the impression that you are looking at something special. In the center is the volume button, which is continuously adjustable in 106 steps. The internal JRC Muses 72320V control ensures precise control of the level selection. Directly above is the elegant wood paneling. Four toggle switches and a VU meter are embedded in it. These switches are used to turn the VU meter and its backlight on and off, toggle the timbre and operating mode, and to select the input channel. The front panel is rounded off by a display that shows the currently selected channel.

Separate housings for optimal power supply

To ensure optimal power delivery to the components, Cayin’s developers outsourced the power supply for this exclusive amplifier to a separate enclosure. Here, the current is split between the left and right channels, each effectively processed by two power transformers. This optimally supplies the power-hungry high-voltage amplifier stages as well as the low-voltage components. From this power unit, the processed current is then passed on to the amplifier unit via the corresponding outputs and the included, specially designed cables. Equipped with SF20 connectors, a 7-pin configuration, and silver-plated 6N copper cable, Cayin provides the optimal conditions to power the Pearl 30i effectively and with the required performance.

Tubes for optimal sound and the perfect bias

The Pearl 30i’s tubes are housed on top of the cabinet. They are the acoustic heart and visual highlight of the integrated amplifier. Two Mullard CV4004/12AX7 tubes provide signal preamplification. In the driver stage, four TungSol 6SN7GTB units on porcelain bases process the signal further. Only then is it passed on to the power amplifier. The final touch is provided by eight KT-170 tubes. Here, the signal is brought to output level using a Class AB1 push-pull process. The windings of the high-purity copper strands in the output transformers are surrounded by Z11 audio-quality silicon steel sheets to ensure outstanding signal purity . A sophisticated auto-bias circuit ensures perfect bias adjustment. This ensures optimal operation and the longest possible tube life. Operation is monitored by an optical bias monitoring indicator. If these irregularities are detected, the amplifier switches to a secure operating mode so that errors can be searched for safely.

Sound of your choice

When outputting the signal, you can choose between two operating modes: Triode mode offers a harmonious, soft sound. This preset is particularly recommended for instrumental music and pieces in which voices and vocals take center stage. For greater performance potential, however, the ultralinear mode is recommended; it is more suited to dynamic music. Further sound adjustments are possible by selecting the timbre. Dynamic mode promises a denser, fuller sound, while the soft setting offers a softer sound. Of course, personal taste ultimately decides. The options described, however, invite you to discover your personal favorite sound. All of these settings, including input selection and volume control, can of course also be adjusted from the comfort of your sofa using the included remote control .