Electrocompaniet · The Classic Line
EC 5 Stereo Reference Preamplifier
Timeless Scandinavian engineering delivering effortless power and absolute musical purity.
For over half a century, Electrocompaniet has pursued a singular vision to bridge the gap between solid-state reliability and the deeply engaging musicality of traditional valve designs. The <> stands as a testament to this philosophy, acting as a transparent conduit between your music and your loudspeakers.
Positioned proudly within The Classic Line, this component utilises a meticulously refined circuit topology designed to eliminate transient intermodulation distortion. Heavy storage capacitance and an over-dimensioned power supply ensure that the signal path remains highly stable, regardless of dynamic demands or complex loads.
Sonically, the presentation is unmistakable. It delivers a satisfying character defined by expansive soundstage depth, realistic instrument body, and a firm grip on the lower registers. Rather than forcing an overly analytical edge, it invites you into the performance with warmth, texture, and exceptional transparency.
Key Features
01
Fully Balanced Topology
Employs a fully balanced, discrete circuit design with minimal negative feedback to ensure an ultra-low noise floor and exceptional channel separation.
02
Signature Aesthetics
Housed in the iconic Classic Line chassis, featuring a striking black glass front panel set against elegant gold-toned buttons.
03
High-Current Power Supply
Equipped with an over-dimensioned power supply and proprietary transformer technology to provide instantaneous current delivery and structural stability.
Chapter 01
Design & Philosophy
Born on the rugged western coast of Norway, Electrocompaniet's approach to audio engineering has always prioritised musical realism over clinical measurements. The <> is the culmination of decades of research into transient intermodulation distortion, originally inspired by early acoustic studies in the nineteen-seventies. The result is a solid-state component that breathes life into recordings, offering the warmth and dimensionality often associated with legacy equipment, but with superior grip and longevity.
Every element of the chassis and internal architecture has been carefully considered to preserve the integrity of the audio signal. By decoupling sensitive input stages from volatile speaker loads and utilising wide open-loop bandwidths, the engineering team has created a platform that disappears entirely, leaving only the music.
Chapter 02
Build & Materials
True to its Norwegian heritage, the construction of the <> is both robust and beautifully refined. The internal layout is carefully segregated to isolate channels, preventing crosstalk and preserving delicate lateral imaging cues. High-grade, hand-selected components populate the circuit boards, while massive internal heatsinks manage thermal loads effortlessly during extended listening sessions.
The exterior is just as purposeful. The minimalist black glass fascia and gold accents are instantly recognisable, signifying its place within the venerable Classic Line. Built strictly without compromise, the chassis provides a resonance-free foundation that protects the delicate audio circuits from mechanical vibration and external interference.
Chapter 03
Sonic Signature
The hallmark of any great audio component is its ability to convey emotion, and the <> excels in this arena. The sound is characteristically rich and full-bodied, casting a holographic soundstage that extends well beyond the physical boundaries of the loudspeakers. It avoids the harsh, fatiguing glare that plagues many modern high-powered designs, offering instead a smooth, natural treble and a highly textured midrange.
Yet, this refinement never comes at the expense of dynamics or low-frequency authority. When the music demands impact, the transient response is fast, and the bass is delivered with structural composure. It is a presentation that remains unwavering, whether rendering a delicate acoustic passage or commanding a full orchestral crescendo.
Specifications
Input impedance balanced (fixed)47 KOhms
Output impedance22R
Maximum Voltage Gain20 dB
SNR (ref. 1V, 20-20 kHz, A-wht)113 dB
Max input voltage10 Vrms
Max output voltage10 Vrms
Gain- 73dB to + 20dB
DC output voltage< 1mV
Frequency response0.5 - 450 KHz
Channel Separation> 120dB
THD + N<0.0002%
Power consumption (no load or signal)80 W
Power consumption (Standby)< 0,5 W
Dimensions and Weight (W*D*H)470 mm / 18.5 inches*420 mm / 16.54 inches *190 mm / 7.48 inches ; 26 kg / 79.37 lbs
Inputs : Balanced, Single ended4 x 2 channel ; 2 x 2 channel
Control parts: Network, Programming1 x Eth ; 1 x USB
Outputs : Balanced, Single ended, IR selector, Trigger2 x 2 channel / REC Out ; 1 / 1 Rec Out ; Internal / External/ None ; 2x In / 3xOut