Unison Research Unico DM V2 Hybrid Power Amplifier

The Unison Research Unico DM V2 is a dual-mono hybrid power amplifier that delivers 220 watts per channel into 8 ohms through a proprietary A.S.H.A. circuit topology, combining the musicality of a Class A tube input stage with the efficiency and power of a Class AB MOSFET output. Powered by twin 750 VA toroidal transformers and bridgeable to 650 watts mono, the DM V2 handles demanding loudspeaker loads with authority while preserving the harmonic richness and micro-detail that define the Unico sound, all handcrafted in Italy.

Key Features of the Unico DM V2

• A.S.H.A. Technology (Class A-AB): Proprietary circuit innovation combines Class A musicality with Class AB efficiency, maintaining virtually inaudible distortion levels from the first watt to full output.
• Dual-Mono Design with Twin 750 VA Transformers: Each channel has its own encapsulated, potted, and shielded toroidal power transformer, completely isolating left and right signal paths for maximum channel separation.
• Gold Lion ECC82/12AU7 Tube Input Stage: Two matched Gold Lion tubes operating in pure Class A define the amplifier's sonic character with speed, fine detail, and a naturally open presentation.
• Three Parallel MOSFET Output Pairs: The complementary push-pull output stage uses three paralleled MOSFET pairs per channel for high current delivery and exceptional control over difficult speaker loads.
• 220W/8Ω Stereo, 650W Mono Bridged: Switchable between stereo and bridged mono operation, with power output scaling from 220W at 8 ohms to 650W in mono for bi-amp or mono configurations.
• Balanced XLR and Unbalanced RCA Inputs: Both balanced and unbalanced connections for flexibility with any preamplifier, including the Unico Pre V2.
• 4+4 Binding Posts for Bi-Wiring: Dual sets of high-quality binding posts per channel support bi-wiring configurations for speakers with separate bass and treble terminals.
• 12V Remote Power Trigger: Trigger input and output for automated power sequencing with the Pre V2 or other components in the system.
• 15mm Machined Aluminum Front Panel: CNC-machined from a solid aluminum block with wooden inserts and the Unison Research logo serving as the power button.

A.S.H.A. Technology: Class A Meets Class AB

The Unico DM V2 debuts Unison Research's proprietary A.S.H.A. technology, a circuit innovation that creates what the company calls "Class A-AB" operation. Rather than choosing between the musical purity of Class A (with its heat and power limitations) or the efficiency of Class AB (with its crossover distortion), A.S.H.A. blends both operating modes within a single output stage. The result is distortion levels that remain virtually inaudible across the amplifier's entire power range, combined with the body, control, and low-frequency depth that Class A designs are known for, even at low listening volumes. At higher output levels, the circuit transitions seamlessly into AB territory without the sudden shift in character that plagues conventional push-pull designs.

Dual-Mono Power Supply

Each channel of the DM V2 is fed by its own dedicated 750 VA toroidal transformer, encapsulated, potted, and shielded to minimize electromagnetic interference between the power supply and the sensitive audio circuits. This true dual-mono architecture means the two channels share nothing except the chassis and the mains cable. When switched to bridged mono operation, the two power supplies work in parallel, creating a combined energy reserve that supports sustained output of 650 watts into 8 ohms and 650 watts into 4 ohms, enough to drive virtually any loudspeaker to its full potential.

Three-Stage Amplification

The DM V2's signal path is organized into three distinct stages, each optimized for its role in the amplification chain. The input stage is a pure Class A circuit using two Gold Lion ECC82/12AU7 dual-triode valves, responsible for the speed, fine detail, and natural harmonic structure that set the amplifier's sonic signature. The second stage is a solid-state adapter circuit that transparently conditions the signal for the output devices without imposing its own coloration. The output stage uses three complementary MOSFET pairs per channel in a push-pull configuration, chosen for their tube-like transfer characteristics and ability to deliver high current into low-impedance loads without compression.

Stereo and Bridged Mono Operation

A rear-panel toggle switch allows the DM V2 to operate in stereo mode (220W/8Ω, 340W/4Ω, 370W/2Ω) or bridged mono mode (650W/8Ω, 650W/4Ω). In stereo, the amplifier's two channels drive a pair of speakers from a single chassis. In mono, both channels combine to drive a single speaker with dramatically increased power and current capability. A pair of DM V2 amplifiers in mono configuration creates a formidable system capable of controlling the most demanding loudspeakers, including large planars and power-hungry floor-standing designs.

Unico DM V2 Connectivity and Speaker Integration

The DM V2 accepts signals through both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs, making it compatible with any preamplifier. The natural companion is the Unico Pre V2, which provides balanced XLR outputs and a 12V trigger signal for synchronized power-on. Speaker connections use four high-quality binding posts per channel (eight total), supporting both standard and bi-wired speaker configurations. The trigger input and output terminals allow daisy-chaining power sequencing across multiple components.

Italian Design and Build Quality

Like its companion preamplifier, the Unico DM V2 is handcrafted in Dosson di Casier, Italy, by A.R.I.A. srl. The front panel is machined from a solid 15mm-thick aluminum block, with the distinctive wooden inserts and copper accent strip that define the new Unico V2 design language. The top panel features a diamond-shaped Unison Research ventilation grille flanked by horizontal cooling slots, providing airflow for the high-power output stage beneath. Available in Midnight Black and Velvet Gold finishes, the DM V2 is designed to sit alongside the Pre V2 as a visually and sonically matched separates system.

Explore the Full Unison Research Unico Series

The Unico DM V2 is the flagship power amplifier in Unison Research's Unico lineup. For listeners exploring different levels of amplification:

• Unico Primo - 75W hybrid integrated, the entry point to the Unico sound.
• Unico Nuovo - 95W hybrid integrated with built-in phono stage.
• Unico Due - 120W hybrid integrated with DAC and phono.
• Unico 90 - 120W hybrid integrated for dedicated two-channel systems.
• Unico 150 - 150W flagship hybrid integrated amplifier.
• Unico Pre V2 - Fully balanced hybrid preamplifier, the DM V2's natural companion.

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Unico DM V2 Specifications