By: CE Critic
Roksan has recently unveiled its new Caspian Series 4G. This range, comprising the Caspian Integrated Amplifier and the Caspian Streaming Amplifier, marks a significant departure from its predecessors, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology, exquisite design, and unparalleled audio performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Caspian Series 4G boasts a sleek and modern aesthetic that is immediately recognizable as a Roksan product. The custom extruded heatsinks, chamfered machined edges, and internal antennas not only contribute to the amplifier's visual appeal but also enhance its thermal management and signal integrity.
Both models feature a high-contrast monochrome OLED display that provides clear and intuitive control. The customizable input icons allow for easy source selection, while the progress indicator displays track length and other relevant information.
Core Technologies
- Rapture DAC Technology: The Caspian Series 4G utilizes Roksan's proprietary Rapture DAC technology, which employs a differential current-conveyor topology for superior digital-to-analogue conversion. This approach ensures that more information is extracted from the signal, resulting in a more detailed and accurate sound.
- Euphoria Amplification: The amplifiers are powered by Roksan's Euphoria amplification architecture, a class AB design that excels in both power and finesse. The use of individual power supplies for the current and voltage amplifiers reduces interaction, leading to a purer and cleaner sound.
- Hybrid Digital-Analogue Volume Control: The Caspian Series 4G features a hybrid volume control that combines the precision of digital control with the warmth and naturalness of analogue. This innovative approach ensures that the signal remains clean and dynamic at all volume levels.
- Intelligent DSP Engine: Accessed through the MaestroUnite app, the intelligent DSP engine allows users to fine-tune their listening experience through four key technologies: Intelligent Tone, Intelligent Boundary, Intelligent Speaker, and Intelligent Phono. These features enable the amplifier to adapt to different listening environments and speaker systems, delivering optimal performance.
Connectivity and Features
The Caspian Series 4G offers a comprehensive range of connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced inputs, coaxial and optical digital inputs, and even HDMI eARC. The streaming amplifier also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for easy integration with wireless devices and streaming services.
Both models feature a dedicated moving magnet phono stage, making them ideal for vinyl enthusiasts. Additionally, the Caspian Streaming Amplifier is powered by the BluOS platform, providing seamless integration with other BluOS-enabled devices and access to a vast library of streaming content.
Performance
The Caspian Series 4G delivers exceptional audio performance, characterized by its clarity, detail, and dynamic range. The Rapture DAC technology ensures that the signal is accurately converted to analogue, while the Euphoria amplification provides ample power and control.
The amplifiers' ability to capture the nuances of music is impressive, with instruments and voices sounding natural and lifelike. The soundstage is expansive, with a sense of depth and dimensionality that draws the listener into the musical experience.
MaestroUnite App
The Caspian Series 4G is controlled by the MaestroUnite app, which provides a user-friendly interface for configuring and customizing the amplifiers. The app allows users to access the DSP engine, adjust input levels, and control other settings.
Availability and Pricing
The Caspian Integrated Amplifier is priced at £3,000 ($3,750 / €3,500), while the Caspian Streaming Amplifier is priced at £4,000 ($5,000 / €4,500). Both models are available in silver or black finishes.
Conclusion
The Roksan Caspian Series 4G represents a significant advancement in high-fidelity audio. With its combination of cutting-edge technology, exquisite design, and exceptional performance, it is a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking a versatile and high-quality amplification system. Whether you are a vinyl enthusiast, a streaming aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the Caspian Series 4G is sure to impress. We look forward to the reviews and CE Critic Score.
