So how do you improve on the already superb Kit1 Standard Edition?
We are lucky enough to have access to Audio Note's high-end double C-core output transformers that are used in the AudioNote finished products. We have incorporated these output transformers into the Kit1 and we call it the PQ Edition. These transformers are hand made on site at the AudioNote UK factory.
These remarkable transformers (Hi-B 0.15mm TRANS-300 series) have the effect of increasing depth and resolution; offering that true high-end SET sound across the full frequency range. Because the Double C-Core transformers are bigger than the TRANS-152 transformers used in the Kit1 standard edition, we had to make the chassis bigger in order to accommodate them - it is now 35mm wider than the original chassis.

• The Kit1 PQ Edition is an integrated amplifiers. That is, they can accept input from any standard line-level Hi-Fi component. It has three inputs. The volume control and the Elma selector switch is accessible on the front of the chassis. If you require more inputs (up to 6), there is plenty of space on the rear panel to fit more.
   
• The output transformers are tapped for 4 ohm and 8 ohm to make speaker matching easier. The mains transformer can be internally configured for many different countries.

 
• The Kit1 PQ Edition in 300B mode has one 300B per channel running at 420 volts with 75mA current giving 9 watts of the cleanest power you will ever hear. In 2A3 mode, the result is a very high quality 3.5 Watts output of that special 2A3 sound.

 
• We have designed a new Mains transformer that can support both 2A3 and 300B operation. The Filament Board is also adjustable for 2A3 (2.5V) operation or 300B (5V operation). The only other change are in the value of the resistors on the cathode of the triode - for 2A3 operation we use 1K5 in parallel and for 300B operation we use 1K8 in parallel. So basically there is just about 10 minutes of soldering involved if you want to switch the kit between 2A3 and 300B or back again!

 
• The input stage consists of a 6SN7GT with a 5687 double triode driver stage running in SRPP. The power supply is a capacitor-choke-capacitor with a 5U4G HT rectifier.

 
• All necessary components are supplied in the kit, including valves. You simply specify which valve type you want to use (300B or 2A3) when ordering.

 
• Please note that we are always willing to help people who have built the Kit1 PQ Edition in the past who are interested in upgrading their amplifier. Enquiries for new chassis and component upgrades are always welcome.

 

...the amp is up and running... and it sounds wonderful. The transparency, depth, and detail, is truly remarkable. And the amp has had no burn in time yet! I knew the sound would be good (as I listened to Chris Tsai's system last May), but I didn't expect my Ariel's to sound the way they now do. It's always great when one's expectations are exceeded...
Mark Leece

...I own over 20 amps, vintage and new, many DIY, all relatively low watt. The Audionote PQ is rapidly becoming my favorite. Looks like I'll finally make my wife happy and sell a few of my collection!”
Randy Morgan