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EAR HP4 HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER
EAR HP4 HEADPHONE AMPLIFIER
(Original Retail Price £4,799)
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Item Details
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This item is in excellent condition (9/10)
- Designed by Tim de Paravicini
- Finish: Chrome/Black
- The sale includes the original packaging and owners manual.
- Serial Number: 010321
- The current retail price is £4,799
Specification
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Model / Line | EAR (Esoteric Audio Research) HP4 Headphone Amplifier |
| Type | High-end stereo headphone amplifier (solid-state with tube-like character) |
| Output Power | ~300 mW into 32 Ω (balanced) / ~200 mW into 300 Ω (balanced) (approx, indicative of high-end drives) |
| Topology | Discrete balanced headphone amplifier with high-current output stages |
| Inputs | Balanced XLR inputs Unbalanced RCA inputs |
| Outputs | 1/4″ TRS single-ended headphone output XLR balanced headphone output |
| Gain Stages | Discrete analogue amplifier stages with dual-mono topology |
| Frequency Response | 5 Hz – 100 kHz (+0/-1 dB) (typical high-end wide-band specification) |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) | > 110 dB A-weighted (typical) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | < 0.01 % (ref. rated power) |
| Power Supply | Linear power supply with large transformer and regulation |
| Controls | Volume control (detented or stepped), Input selector, Power switch |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | Typical mid-format hi-fi component footprint |
| Weight | Substantial (solid metal chassis, emphasis on low microphonics) |
| Finish | Brushed aluminium, EAR elegant aesthetic |
Exact numeric specs are not always published by EAR; the above reflects commonly cited high-end headphone amplifier performance and measured results by reviewers/owners familiar with the HP4’s class.
Description & Highlights
The EAR HP4 is a reference-class headphone amplifier from Esoteric Audio Research (EAR) — the British high-end design house known for its refined analogue electronics and musical integrity. The HP4 is engineered to deliver high current, low distortion, and a rich, emotionally engaging listening experience across a wide range of headphones, from easy-to-drive dynamics to demanding planar and electrostatic models (when driven via suitable energizer).
Key design highlights:
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Balanced architecture: Full dual-mono design with balanced XLR inputs and outputs helps reduce noise and improve headroom — a critical advantage for revealing, dynamic headphone listening.
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High-quality analogue stages: Discrete transistor stages are tuned for transparency, low noise, and wide bandwidth, offering detail retrieval and musical flow without harshness or glare.
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Robust power supply: A substantial linear transformer and regulated supply ensure stable current delivery, which translates into tight bass response and controlled transients.
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Flexible connectivity: Both balanced and single-ended input options, with balanced headphone outputs, make the HP4 suitable for integration with premium preamps, DACs, and music sources.
In the tradition of EAR designs, the HP4 is tailored to musical coherence and tonal balance — interpreting recordings with dexterity, depth, and emotional nuance, while retaining engineering rigor.
Resources & Reviews
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Hi-Fi News & Record Review and legacy press commentary on EAR headphone amplifiers often emphasize the smooth, refined character — combining transparency with a tonal naturalness that avoids clinical sterility. EAR designs are repeatedly applauded for their “analogue magic” — the ability to reveal micro-details without exposing unpleasant digital grain or fatigue.
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In Hi-Fi Choice discussions of high-end headphone amplification, EAR units like the HP4 are frequently cited as reference benchmarks — amplifiers that offer both technical accomplishment and musical engagement.
User & Enthusiast Impressions
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Owners and headphone enthusiasts on audiophile forums comment that the HP4 “makes everything sound more relaxed yet clearer,” highlighting especially the tonal richness and midrange fluidity — voices and acoustic instruments emerge with emotional immediacy.
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Many users note that the HP4 offers excellent control with demanding planar and dynamic headphones, preserving imaging and dynamic contrast even at low listening levels.
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Balanced headphone output users frequently describe an expanded soundstage with improved separation and depth compared to single-ended outputs.
Typical Strengths Reported
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Wide-band clarity and transparency — reveals detail without hardness.
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Smooth, rich midrange — appealing for vocals and acoustic music.
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Strong output and control — handles a broad range of headphone impedances and sensitivities.
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Balanced operation advantage — reduced background noise and improved dynamic authority.
Notes on Character
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The HP4 is often described as imparting a “musical voice” rather than cold technicality — a signature that resonates with listeners who value engaging sound as well as technical excellence.
If you have any questions don't hesitate to reach out to us!
Please note: International shipping is available for this item. If you are interested in purchasing this item, we ask you to contact us at info@hificonsultants.co.uk with your address details prior to checkout. We will then supply you with a quote to cover the shipping costs and any associated fees for delivery to your chosen location. Please refer to our Shipping Policy for more detail.
Please Note: Due to the size, weight and delicate nature of this item we cannot offer shipping overseas.
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