UNISON RESEARCH SIMPLY ITALY BLACK EDITION

Black Edition version, this model differs from the standard by featuring selected KT77 Gold Lion tubes, an integrated DAC with optical, S/PDIF, and USB inputs, newly improved internal circuit boards, fully manual BIAS adjustment for increased power and detail, relay-based input switching with ground isolation on unused sources, and higher output power—approximately 5 to 10 watts more than the standard version.

The Simply Italy Black Edition is a refined evolution of one of Unison Research’s most iconic amplifiers, enhanced with a series of innovative technical solutions aimed at further elevating its sonic performance. At the heart of the upgrade lies the introduction of electronic bias control, a technology that ensures the KT77 tube maintains a stable operating point throughout its lifespan. By eliminating the need for traditional auto-bias, this system allows the tube’s full potential to be harnessed with greater precision and control.

A key improvement is found in the output transformer, which has been completely redesigned with a five-section winding structure. This delivers an even more refined tonal character and optimizes load matching, ensuring perfect synergy with modern loudspeakers—especially at 6-ohm impedance. The signal path and power management circuits have been thoroughly reworked to minimize noise and provide clear, dynamic sound reproduction. The preamplifier section operates without coupling capacitors, employing direct coupling between stages. Only two high-grade capacitors are present throughout the entire signal path, selected for their exceptional audio quality.

Particular attention has been paid to the input selection network, now implemented with gold-contact micro relays and Return GND technology. This approach electrically disconnects the ground paths of unused sources, minimizing crosstalk and improving channel separation. Each analog input benefits from a dedicated, shortened ground path, effectively treating each one as an isolated signal route. A feedback switch is also included, allowing the user to select the desired amount of global negative feedback. This control provides the ability to fine-tune the amplifier’s tonal and dynamic behavior to match speaker characteristics or personal listening preferences. Feedback levels affect factors such as frequency extension, distortion, and damping factor—enabling true interaction between the amplifier and the system.

Aesthetically, the Black Edition stands out with its glossy black lacquered wooden front panel, black gunmetal accents, and updated silkscreen graphics. On the connectivity side, the amplifier benefits from the integration of Unison Research’s in-house designed DAC3. This addition provides three digital inputs—USB, Toslink optical, and coaxial S/PDIF—supporting PCM files up to 384 kHz and native DSD up to 256x. This ensures broad compatibility with modern digital sources while preserving the distinctive warmth of tube-based sound reproduction. The unfiltered SUB output allows connection to an active subwoofer without altering the amplifier’s sonic character, making it a complete and coherent solution for full-range systems.

Technical Specifications:

• Output power: 10 watts
• Signal tubes: 2 x ECC82 Gold Lion
• Output stage: 2 x KT77 Gold Lion
• Inputs: 3 x RCA line, 1 x USB, 1 x SPDIF coaxial, 1 x Toslink optical
• Outputs: 1 x stereo RCA subwoofer out
• Bias: Electronic bias, Class A operation, ultralinear configuration at 43% tap (output tubes)
• Bandwidth (-1 dB): 15 Hz – 30 kHz
• Feedback: Selectable between 4 dB and 3 dB
• Dimensions (W x D x H): 26 x 40 x 18 cm
• Weight: 15 kg