Audma Maestro HPA1

The Audma Maestro HPA1 is the first desktop headphone amplifier to feature Audma's patented ELISA (Electronic Loudspeaker Imaging Simulating Amplifier) technology, a psychoacoustic circuit that recreates the three-dimensional soundstage of a loudspeaker system through headphones, making the sound feel as though it comes from in front of you rather than from inside your head. The result of mature, sophisticated engineering designed for the most discerning audiophile listeners.

Type and Technology

Desktop headphone amplifier and DAC/preamp with ELISA psychoacoustic soundstage technology. ELISA circuit, Audma's patented system that simulates the physics of a stereo loudspeaker setup through headphones, with adjustable virtual speaker distance and angle via front panel controls for a personalized listening experience. AKM AK4490REQ DAC chip with VELVET SOUND technology. Dual mono power supply with custom-built audio transformers and Nichicon electrolytic capacitors. Wima Red Series audio capacitors. Alps Alpine motorized potentiometer. Alpha switches throughout. Automatic voltage switching for international use. Two stereo analog inputs: unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR. Three digital inputs: RCA coaxial, TOSLINK optical, and USB 2.0. PCM support up to 768kHz; DSD256. Headphone outputs: 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced, 4-pin XLR balanced, 6.35mm single-ended. Line outputs: XLR and RCA for system integration or second amplifier. Courtesy lights on the front panel for use in low-light environments.

Sound Character

The ELISA circuit is what sets the Maestro HPA1 apart from every other headphone amplifier, it does not simply present music inside your head but reconstructs the spatial experience of sitting in front of a stereo speaker system. Adjustable virtual angle and distance let you dial in the presentation to your preference and headphone. Beyond ELISA, the dual mono power supply, Nichicon capacitors, and Wima audio capacitors deliver a transparent, detailed, and tonally accurate baseline amplifier character that rewards the spatial processing rather than coloring it.

Build and Finish

Full-width chassis at 43 x 11 x 43cm, 8.7kg. Made in Italy by Audma.

Best For

Audiophiles who find conventional headphone imaging claustrophobic or fatiguing and want a technically sophisticated solution to out-of-head localization, and those who want a full-featured DAC/amp/preamp with Audma's unique spatial processing.

What's in the Box

• Audma Maestro HPA1 headphone amplifier/DAC/preamp
• Power cable
• Documentation

Specifications