Unison Research Unico 150 Integrated Amplifier

The Unico 150 Integrated Amplifier from Unison Research is a hybrid marvel designed to meet the demanding criteria of audiophiles and engineers alike. By combining a meticulous approach to both sonic and scientific standards, Unison Research has crafted an amplifier that stands apart in the world of high-end audio. The Unico 150 delivers powerful, pristine sound through a minimalist three-stage design, incorporating two tube stages and one power MOSFET stage, ensuring an immersive and precise listening experience.

Key Features

• Hybrid Design: Combines the warmth of tubes with the precision of MOSFETs for a balanced sound.
• Three-Stage Circuit: Minimalist design featuring two tube stages and one power MOSFET stage for enhanced linearity.
• High Power Output: Delivers 150+150 W RMS at 8Ω and 220+220 W RMS at 4Ω.
• Low Feedback Factor: Local feedback factor of 16 dB for reduced distortion.
• Dual Mono Construction: Independent power supplies for each channel, ensuring clear and dynamic sound.

About Unison Research

Unison Research, founded in Italy, has a long-standing reputation for crafting high-fidelity audio equipment that marries traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Each product reflects their passion for music and dedication to producing equipment that delivers both sonic excellence and visual beauty. 

Innovative Design Approach

The Unico 150 represents a significant departure from traditional amplifier design. Unison Research has developed two circuit performance standards—one featuring a 3-stage circuit and the other a 2-stage circuit. The Unico 150 employs the 3-stage circuit, which is ideal for amplifiers requiring higher power output. This approach allows for an exceptional standard of linearity, typically difficult to achieve with conventional technologies. The result is a sound that reflects the best aspects of both tube and solid-state amplification.

Precision and Build Quality

At the core of the Unico 150 is a hybrid structure where the initial gain and overall character are defined by two carefully selected tube stages. These stages feature triodes designed for minimal gain and low output impedance, allowing for precise signal control. The choice of components, such as Mundorf capacitors and Italian-made Itelcond electrolytic caps, support the amplifier’s speed, signal clarity, and overall sound transparency.

Thoughtful Construction

The Unico 150 is built as a dual mono amplifier, featuring power transformers that deliver 400 + 400 VA continuously. The power MOSFETs in each channel handle up to 1200 watts, ensuring ample power reserves while maintaining safety margins. Unison Research’s attention to detail is evident in the amplifier’s construction, with extensive simulations and prototypes tested to achieve the desired sound quality. 

Power and Performance

The Unico 150’s design emphasizes consistency and power, ensuring the amplifier delivers optimal performance across a wide range of listening conditions. Its unique solution eliminates the need for a thermal compensation stage, reducing potential sources of distortion. The amplifier achieves its nominal linearity quickly, with optimal performance reached in just over 10 minutes of operation. With a power output of 150+150 W RMS at 8Ω, the Unico 150 is capable of driving a wide variety of speakers.

Versatility in Preamplification

The preamplifier section of the Unico 150 incorporates several innovative features, including a passive design to minimize noise and a specialized ALPS potentiometer for precise channel balance. The use of mechanical relays and transformers for balanced inputs ensures minimal signal interference and superior galvanic isolation. This design choice not only maintains signal integrity but also enhances the overall versatility of the amplifier.

The Listening Room Experience

At The Listening Room, we take pride in offering more than just high-fidelity audio equipment. We provide expert advice, personalized service, and a commitment to helping you find the perfect sound system for your space. From delivery to custom setup, our goal is to ensure that every piece of equipment you purchase performs at its absolute best in your environment. Trust us to be your partners in the pursuit of exceptional sound.

Specifications

• Output Power: 150+150 W RMS at 8Ω / 220+220 W RMS at 4Ω
• Frequency Response: -1dB @ 12Hz & 45kHz, -3 dB @ 6Hz & 80 kHz
• Input Impedance: 24kΩ // 100pF
• Input Sensitivity: 860mV RMS
• Input Stage: Pure A class, double triode totem pole ECC83
• Driver Stage: Pure A class, double triode totem pole 6H30
• Output Stage: Class AB thermostable, complementary Hexfet (4 pairs per channel)
• Input: 6 line (3 unbalanced, 2 balanced, 1 “bypass” unbalanced)
• Line Outputs: 1 tape, 1 sub (volume controlled)
• Output Connectors: 4 + 4 bi-wiring
• Global Feedback Factor: 0 dB
• Local Feedback Factor: 16 dB
• THD:
  
  • < 0.15% @ 1kHz, 1 W
  • < 0.25% @ 1kHz, 10 W
  • < 0.35% @ 1kHz, 100 W
  • < 0.9% from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, 150 W
• Output Resistance: <0.4Ω, resistive on all audio frequencies
• Power Consumption: 550 W (at max power on 8 ohm)
• Dimensions: 43.5 cm x 18 cm x 44 cm
• Net Weight: 55.1 lbs (25kg)