Italy’s Unison Research raises the bar for their Unico line with the new UNICO PRE V2 hybrid preamplifier and UNICO DM V2 dual mono power amplifier.
The dynamic UNICO duo get a real refresh inside and out with new technology including the company’s A.S.H.A. (Analog Synchronized Hybrid Amplification) that promises to bring the strengths of Class A and Class AB to the their newly dubbed Class A-AB operation.
The fully balanced hybrid UNICO PRE V2 marries a Class A tube stage (2× ECC83 / 12AX7 Gold Lion) with a Class A solid state output while there’s zero negative feedback employed.
In addition to single-ended and balanced ins and outs, the PRE V2 also includes an Sabre ES9018K2M-based DAC as well as an MM/MC phono stage with selectable load and gain settings to match your cartridge of choice.
The DM V2 dual mono power amplifier employs a three-stage design with a Class A tube input stage using two ECC82 / 12AU7 Gold Lion tubes, a solid-state second stage and a final power stage that “features an innovative complementary push-pull configuration, using three parallel pairs of MOSFETs”. Output power is rated at 220 W continuous @ 8 Ω, 340 W continuous @ 4 Ω, and 370 W continuous @ 2 Ω (@ 1 kHz, 1% THD).
From Unison Research:
With Unico DM v2, Unison Research® introduces the A.S.H.A. technology for the first time, marking a significant technical evolution that forms the foundation of the new Unico series developed around this innovative solution. From this technology comes a new and exclusive power-stage configuration, named Class A-AB, which combines the unmistakable musicality of Class A with the efficiency and reliability typical of Class AB.
The new architecture of Unico DM v2 ensures distortion levels that are virtually inaudible to the human ear, remaining consistent up to maximum output power. The result is extremely natural reproduction, rich in micro-detail and capable of conveying the full musical complexity without artefacts. Even at low listening levels, the amplifier retains body, control and depth in the low frequencies, delivering a full and engaging sound under all conditions.
The UNICO DM V2 can be run in stereo or mono mode with the flip of a switch.
The UNICO PRE V2 and UNICO DM V2 are available in the US exclusively through Fidelity Imports and their dealer network for $7499 in Midnight Black or Velvet Gold (Special Order) for the preamp and $10,999 in Midnight Black or Velvet Gold (Special Order) for the power amp.
Here’s the press release:
Unison Research Launches UNICO PRE V2 and UNICO DM V2
Featuring New A.S.H.A. Technology and Exclusive Class A-AB Power Stage
Treviso, Italy – Unison Research proudly announces the launch of the UNICO PRE V2 preamplifier and UNICO DM V2 dual-mono power amplifier, introducing a significant technical evolution at the heart of the new Unico series: Analog Synchronized Hybrid Amplification (A.S.H.A.) technology.
A.S.H.A. represents a major advancement in Unison Research’s hybrid amplifier design philosophy and forms the technological foundation of this new generation. From this innovation comes an exclusive new power-stage configuration named Class A-AB — a proprietary topology, based on Leader-follower configuration, that combines the unmistakable musicality and harmonic richness of pure Class A operation with the efficiency, stability, and reliability typically associated with Class AB designs.
The result is an amplification platform capable of delivering exceptional tonal naturalness and fluidity, while maintaining the dynamic authority and control required by modern loudspeakers.
The UNICO PRE V2 is a fully balanced hybrid preamplifier featuring a Class A tube input stage combined with a refined solid-state section built in Pure Class A; the UNICO PRE V2 has zero negative feedback, that ensures outstanding transparency, improved linearity, and enhanced signal coherence, presenting music with depth, texture, and effortless realism.
The UNICO DM V2 is a true dual-mono power amplifier engineered for uncompromising performance. Each channel features independent circuitry and dedicated power supplies, maximizing separation and minimizing interference. Thanks to the Class A-AB configuration derived from A.S.H.A. technology, the DM V2 delivers the warmth and dimensionality of Class A with the speed, grip, and long-term reliability of Class AB — offering authoritative bass control, refined midrange articulation, and expansive sound staging.
Together, the UNICO PRE V2 and UNICO DM V2 form a reference-grade amplification system that embodies Unison Research’s philosophy: technological innovation in service of musical truth.
Each unit is meticulously handcrafted in Italy, reflecting the company’s enduring commitment to engineering excellence and artisanal build quality.
Availability: The UNICO PRE V2 and UNICO DM V2 is exclusively distributing in the U.S. by Fidelity Imports.
About Unison Research: Founded in 1987, Unison Research is internationally recognized for its innovative hybrid amplifiers and tube electronics, combining traditional Italian craftsmanship with advanced audio engineering.