MEIER AUDIO CORDA JAZZ-FF

Second-hand. In excellent conditions. No visible signs of wear. Includes manual and compatible non-original packaging.

Consignment sale item.

The Jazz ff is one of the top standalone headphone preamplifiers offered by Meier Audio. This is a straightforward device designed exclusively for single-ended configurations, featuring a single RCA input and a 6.3 mm headphone output, with no additional connectivity options. Volume is controlled via a knob that manages a 31-step discrete digital converter, and a push button allows switching between low and high gain. The “ff” technology used in this model is intended to provide the benefits of balanced connections within a single-ended setup, though its exact functioning remains somewhat obscure.

As with other Meier Audio devices, the Jazz ff includes an analog crossfeed filter that can be turned on or off, designed to simulate a more natural and immersive listening experience. It features an extended frequency response and an ultra-low output impedance of less than 0.1 Ohm. The amplifier uses OPA209 opamps biased into class A and incorporates four Burr-Brown BUF634 buffer amplifiers for the left, right, and ground channels—a configuration that contributes to a clean and transparent sound.

From a sonic standpoint, the Jazz ff stands out for its absolute neutrality, delivering precise extension in both the low and high frequencies and revealing an impressive level of detail—often surprising the listener with the discovery of previously unnoticed musical elements. Despite offering more treble presence than some comparable amplifiers, it never loses its musicality, maintaining a balance that combines clarity and warmth without ever sounding cold or analytical. The soundstage is wide and well-defined, with excellent instrument separation and natural, crystal-clear vocals, while the background remains practically noise-free even at high volumes or with very sensitive headphones.

The amplifier is surprisingly powerful, easily driving demanding headphones, and its volume control is smooth, with discrete but closely spaced steps that allow for precise adjustments.

The Jazz ff proves to be a benchmark product in its price range, offering a significant qualitative leap over previous models, and combining transparency, detail, and musicality in an exceptionally balanced and satisfying manner.

Technical specifications:

• Output impedance: < 0.1 Ohm
• Maximum output current: 300 mA
• Maximum output voltage (Jazz): 3.7 V
• Maximum output voltage (Jazz-FF): 15 V @ 200 Hz
• Discrete volume control: 31 steps; typical step size 1.4 dB
• Gain switch: +0 dB / +16 dB
• Crossfeed filter switchable: stereo mode (OFF) or active crossfeed (ON)
• Analog inputs: 1 pair
• Input impedance: 18 kOhm
• Gold-plated input connectors
• Silver-plated Neutrik headphone jack
• Heavy-duty silver-plated switches
• 10 Watt toroidal transformer
• Switchable power supply: 110 V / 220 V
• Power consumption: 5 Watts
• Built-in ground loop breaker
• Double regulated power lines
• Low impedance buffer electrolytic capacitors (Nichicon); total buffer capacity: 39,000 µF
• Bypass capacitors in power supply
• Polystyrene and polypropylene capacitors in the signal path
• Metal film resistors in the signal path
• OPA209 opamps biased into class A
• Total of 4 BURR-BROWN BUF634 buffer amplifiers on left, right, and ground channels
• Active balanced headphone ground
• Signal paths and components mounted on the bottom side of the PCB for optimal shielding
• Solid anodized aluminum chassis
• Weight: 1.0 kg
• Dimensions: 22.2 x 10.6 x 6.0 cm