PS Audio Sprout100 Review and Specs

PS Audio has released a new integrated amplifier in the Sprout line - the Sprout100, which is twice as powerful as its predecessor. See all the interesting PS Audio Sprout100 specs in this PS Audio Sprout100 review.

PS Audio Sprout100 review

Specs and features

A serious and functional filling was placed in a compact package: a DAC based on the ESS Saber 9016 chip, a Bluetooth module, a phono preamplifier, a headphone amplifier and a Class D power amplifier, generating 50 watts per channel per 8 ohms and 100 watts per 4 ohms. The updated topology, according to the developers, improved the dynamics and reduced the noise level. The new, fully asynchronous DAC is ready to work with PCM signals up to 32 bit / 384 kHz and DSD up to 5.6 MHz. For fans of forced low frequencies, the Bass Boost function is provided. As for the sound via Bluetooth in the Sprout 100, it was suitable only for background listening.

Design and build

The appearance of the amplifier has undergone only cosmetic changes that have touched the volume knobs and input selector. But the control panel is completely updated. Now it is an elegant all-metal little thing, with which you can turn the amplifier on and off, adjust the volume, turn off the sound. The kit includes a remote control. Since the Sprout 100 measures 152x203x44 mm, it is compact enough to be used in desktop setups. During operation, the aluminum case was only slightly warm to the touch.

Connectivity

It is equipped with a subwoofer output, speaker outputs, as well as RCA inputs and outputs, coaxial and optical inputs for connecting digital players and headphone output. Connection options are somewhat limited by the miniature size of the Sprout 100, but at the same time there is a phono input (for MM cartridges), a linear stereo input and a stereo output, a monaural output to a subwoofer, a headphone output of 6.3 mm, a digital optical input and USB Type B. Built-in digital The analog converter can work with PCM signal up to 384 kHz / 24 bit and DSD 128. Acoustic connection is provided only with banana connectors. But the good news is that a set of these all-metal connectors comes complete with an amplifier.

Pros and Cons