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  • Review – Roksan Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier

    Review – Roksan Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier

    The Roksan Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier marks a bold step forward in the realm of high-fidelity audio, blending cutting-edge streaming functionality with the well-established sonic excellence of the Caspian series. This review explores its design, specifications, connectivity, performance, and overall value to provide an insightful analysis for audio enthusiasts.

    Design and Build Quality

    The Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier embodies Roksan’s signature commitment to premium craftsmanship. Its sleek, minimalist design is available in both silver and black finishes, exuding sophistication and modern appeal. A centrally positioned multi-function control dial on the front panel offers seamless navigation, while the inclusion of backlit OLED icons enhances usability and aesthetics. The chassis features well-placed cooling vents that contribute to thermal efficiency without compromising on design integrity. Overall, its robust construction ensures longevity while maintaining a refined and elegant profile.

    caspian 4g
    Caspian 4G – images: Roksan

    Technical Specifications

    Under the hood, the Caspian 4G employs Roksan’s proprietary ‘Euphoria’ intelligent Class AB amplifier technology. This innovative architecture features separate power supplies for voltage and current, allowing it to deliver a potent 105 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 200 watts per channel at 4 ohms. A hefty 600VA toroidal transformer and 36,400µF of smoothing capacitance per rail provide unwavering stability and sufficient headroom, even during complex musical passages. Additionally, the dual-mono power amplifier configuration, powered by high-quality Toshiba output devices, ensures optimal performance across a diverse range of speakers.

    Connectivity and Features

    Designed to be the centerpiece of a modern hi-fi system, the Caspian 4G offers an extensive suite of connectivity options. Analog enthusiasts will appreciate both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) inputs, catering to a variety of source components. Digital inputs, including optical and coaxial connections, allow seamless integration with external devices. Furthermore, vinyl lovers are not left behind, as the built-in moving-magnet (MM) phono stage supports turntable setups with remarkable clarity.

    On the streaming front, the amplifier incorporates BluOS multi-room high-resolution audio streaming, granting users access to a wide array of online music services and networked audio sources. The MaestroUnite app enhances the user experience, offering firmware updates, subwoofer output configuration, input customization, and advanced DSP-based room boundary adjustments.

    Performance

    Sonically, the Caspian 4G delivers an exceptional listening experience across various genres. Its ability to render acoustic instruments with precision and natural timbre makes it an excellent choice for jazz and classical music lovers. The amplifier’s adept handling of dynamic shifts contributes to a captivating and immersive auditory experience.

    Bass reproduction is deep, controlled, and free of excessive resonance, ensuring a clean and impactful low-end presence. The midrange remains lush and articulate, while the high frequencies offer exceptional clarity without sounding harsh. The amplifier’s power reserves enable it to drive demanding speakers effortlessly, maintaining composure even at high volume levels.

    rs caspian streaming caspian 4g
    Caspian 4G

    Comparison with Previous Models

    Compared to its predecessors, the Caspian 4G introduces substantial refinements in both functionality and design. While preserving the signature Roksan sound profile, this iteration enhances usability through integrated streaming and expanded connectivity. The build quality has also seen noticeable improvements, with a more refined chassis and superior component selection, ensuring reliability and enhanced sonic performance.

    Value Proposition

    With a retail price of approximately £4000, the Caspian 4G sits in the high-end segment of the market. However, its robust construction, exceptional audio fidelity, and extensive feature set make it a worthwhile investment. When compared to similarly priced competitors, the amplifier stands out due to its seamless streaming integration, substantial power output, and high-quality DAC implementation. Its ability to deliver a performance that rivals more expensive multi-component setups further solidifies its value.

    roksan caspian 4g streaming amplifier
    Roksan Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier

    The Roksan Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier is a remarkable blend of traditional high-fidelity amplification and modern streaming convenience. Its elegant design, powerful performance, and feature-rich architecture make it an outstanding choice for serious music lovers. Whether you prioritize analog playback or high-resolution digital streaming, the Caspian 4G delivers a compelling and engaging listening experience that is sure to impress.

    Are there alternative streaming amplifiers I should consider?

    If you’re considering alternatives to the Roksan Caspian 4G Streaming Amplifier, here are a few high-quality options that might suit your needs:

    1. Naim Uniti Atom

    • Power Output: 40W per channel into 8Ω
    • Features: Integrated streaming with Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, and Roon Ready
    • Strengths: Exceptional build quality, sleek design, and dynamic sound signature
    • Best For: Those looking for a compact yet high-performance all-in-one solution

    2. Cambridge Audio Evo 150

    • Power Output: 150W per channel into 8Ω
    • Features: Class-D amplifier, ESS Sabre DAC, Roon Ready, aptX HD Bluetooth, HDMI ARC
    • Strengths: Rich connectivity options, strong power output, and modern design
    • Best For: Users wanting a feature-packed, high-power amplifier with HDMI support

    3. Marantz Model 40n

    • Power Output: 70W per channel into 8Ω
    • Features: HEOS streaming platform, phono input, high-quality DAC, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect
    • Strengths: Warm, musical sound signature with premium build quality
    • Best For: Those who love a warm, analog-like sound with streaming convenience

    4. Hegel H120

    • Power Output: 75W per channel into 8Ω
    • Features: High-end DAC, AirPlay, Spotify Connect, DLNA, Roon Ready
    • Strengths: Clean, neutral sound with excellent dynamics and detail
    • Best For: Audiophiles looking for an ultra-transparent sound signature
  • Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier – quality and style

    Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier – quality and style

    The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier gives a boost to your entire system with a variety of inputs, elegant good looks, and outstanding Roksan sound quality.

    High-quality amplifier for all of your analog and digital sources
    The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier provides the ideal balance of excellence and adaptability. It features inputs for your whole system, including Bluetooth, four digital, and three analogue. Even a phono pre-amp for your turntable is integrated. The Attessa delivers smooth, room-filling power with 2 x 80 watts.Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier

    Powerful sound
    The Attessa’s 2 x 80 watt amp gives it the vibrant, dynamic sound for which Roksan is famous. High current circuitry, powered by a robust transformer, ensures that there is always enough on hand to enable you to hear musical peaks at their most dynamic. Look no farther if you want an exciting listen.

    Wide range Bluetooth
    Bluetooth is easily paired for simple streaming from your smartphone or other device. Bluetooth makes wireless music sharing simple, which is ideal for when friends and family are over and you want to share music. The standard range of the Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier is 15 meters, which is 50% longer than the average.
    Digital inputs that are flexible
    Up to four digital sources can be connected via the two coaxial and two optical digital inputs. Connect your CD player, Blu-ray player, gaming system, and TV for an audio update on your entire digital setup.Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier

    MM phonostage is among the many flexible analogue inputs.
    You can connect your other sources, including a CD player without a digital output and a cassette player, using the two RCA phono inputs that are available. The Phono input contains a built-in MM pre-amp for wide-ranging compatibility and an easy connection with a turntable. Pre outs let you to connect your preferred active subwoofer or upgrade to a more potent amp, providing yet another illustration of the Attessa’s extensive versatility.
    The Attessa Streaming Amplifier is a “hub” product that covers the majority of requirements. A trio of analogue inputs (on RCA) are available on the amp, one of which is for an integrated MM phono stage. These inputs are in addition to Ethernet/Wi-Fi, aptX Bluetooth, and its BluOS connection. Additionally, there are USB and four digital ins (two coaxial and two optical). There is also a subwoofer/RCA pre-out connection. An HDMI eARC port for an easier connection to a TV is what other competitors offer.

    Attessa IR Remote​
    Attessa IR Remote​

    When taken out of the box, it feels substantial and high-quality, which gives off positive first impressions. The huge volume knob has a wonderful, smooth motion and exudes assurance in the caliber of the building materials.
    The free MaestroUnite app, which is available for Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, made setup very quick and easy.
    Simple pushes and turns of the front control knob are all it takes to choose from the several available inputs.

    A seamless design
    The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier looks as seamless and streamlined as it sounds, with no visible aerials, a wraparound steel lid, and a front panel made of anodized aluminum. Its timeless design, which is available in black or silver finishes, melds seamlessly with its surroundings. Photo: Roksan

    The Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier will put high-quality sound at the center of your system.Roksan Attessa Integrated Amplifier

    Power Output into 8 Ohm

    80W Both Channels Driven, Nominal (THD+N <0.1%)

    Power Output into 4 Ohm

    130W Both Channels Driven, Nominal (THD+N <0.1%)

    Inputs (Digital)

    Digital 1 (D1) – Coax SPDIF (up to 192kHz/24bit)
    Digital 2 (D2) – Optical SPDIF (max. 96kHz/24bit)
    Digital 3 (TV) – Optical SPDIF (max. 96kHz/24bit)
    Digital 4 (CD) – Coax SPDIF (up to 192kHz/24bit)
    Digital 5 (Bluetooth) – Bluetooth (48kHz/16bit)

    Inputs (Analogue)

    A1 – No signal sense
    A2 – With signal sense & used for AV Mode
    MM (Phono) – RIAA (equalised)

    Outputs

    1x pair Speaker binding posts (L&R)
    1x pair of RCA Analogue (Pre-out/SUB)
    3.5mm Stereo mini-jack headphone socket – 7.5Vrms drive suitable for all headphone types including high-impedance

    Other

    IEC mains power socket (3 pin)/Fuse holder
    3.5mm mini-Jack – 12v trigger Input (On / Standby)
    IR wired input 3.5mm jack

    Other Interface – IR remote

    Bluetooth

    A2DP Audio profile /
    Codecs – SBC, aptX & AAC
    Bluetooth Range – 15m (typical)

    Digital Coax Input

    up to 24bit/192kHz PCM

    Digital Optical Input

    up to 24bit/96kHz PCM

    MaestroUnite

    System Creation and Control
    Advanced System Setting
    Over the Air Updates via Wi-Fi

    Mains Transformer Rating

    400VA