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High Fidelity Audio

Talos Signature

Aries Cerat · Talos

Talos Signature

A serious contender dedicated to the absolute pinnacle of analog reproduction.

Extracting the microscopic signals buried within a record groove requires amplification of extreme delicacy and power. The Talos Signature represents a formidable expression of Aries Cerat's phono technology, taking the proven foundation of the Reference model and refining it to compete with the finest analogue sources in the world. It discards conventional solid-state or hybrid approaches, opting instead for a cost-no-object, all-tube, transformer-coupled architecture. Positioned just below the flagship Limited Edition, this two-chassis system borrows key circuit advancements from the top tier, including a proprietary differential tube input stage. By separating the massive power supplies into an entirely dedicated enclosure, the main gain stages are completely isolated from mechanical vibration and magnetic interference. This obsessive approach to noise rejection allows the delicate phono signal to be amplified with astonishing clarity. The resulting presentation redefines what is expected from analogue playback. The Talos Signature brings the dynamics and signal-to-noise ratios close to the realm of digital reproduction, yet retains the harmonic density, continuous flow, and emotional weight that makes high-end vinyl the ultimate source for many audiophiles.

Key Features

01

Differential Input Stage

Uses two E280F super tubes per channel and fully balanced MU/Permalloy core transformers to cancel common-mode noise and retrieve maximum detail.

02

Constant-Impedance LCR RIAA

Utilises highly transparent Double-T LCR filters driven by a dedicated miniature SET amplifier, ensuring perfectly accurate and dynamic equalisation.

03

Independent SET Output Stage

Operates as a standalone single-ended triode amplifier with a step-down transformer, providing exceptionally low output impedance to drive any preamplifier effortlessly.

04

Bespoke External Loading

Avoids the compromises of internal presets by using custom, made-to-order external loading modules perfectly tailored to the listener's cartridge portfolio.

Design Philosophy

Chapter 01

Design Philosophy

The Talos Signature is built on the belief that a phono stage must treat the micro-volt cartridge signal with absolute reverence. Aries Cerat achieved this by designing a fully balanced, differential topology from input to output. This complex approach naturally rejects the electrical noise picked up by tonearm cables and the cartridge body, resulting in a profoundly silent background that allows the music to emerge with startling realism.
Power and Isolation

Chapter 02

Power and Isolation

To protect the fragile audio signal, the Talos Signature employs a massive external power supply chassis. Six independent power supplies feature decoupled returning legs connected only to a single star ground in the main unit. This meticulous filtration topology ensures zero power crosstalk between the amplification stages, which is critical for low-level signal integrity.
Sonic Presentation

Chapter 03

Sonic Presentation

Listeners often describe the Talos Signature as a revelation in analogue playback. It delivers the immense soundstage width and physical weight of a live performance, combined with a transient speed that easily rivals high-resolution digital sources. It does not artificially warm the sound, but rather presents the true harmonic structure of the recording with unyielding authority.

Specifications

TypeTwo-chassis all-tube phono preamplifier
Tube compliment8x E280F, 4x 6d22s
Total system gain64dB direct, 76-90dB with custom SUT
Noise floor<80dB
Maximum signal to noise ratio106dB
RIAA accuracy+/- 0.2dB
Inputs2x floating RCA/XLR differential, 1x custom SUT input
Cartridge loadingCustom built external loading modules
Max Output20Vrms @ 200ohm
Loading Resistance/CapacitanceUnlimited combinations. (use of extenal custom built loading modules)
Dimensions540 mm W x 430 mm D x 165 mm H
Weight100Kgs