Designed for seamless integration with TV and Bluetooth audio, the wireless preamplifier Sound Hub Compact combines all the features and interfaces needed for a central role in a fully wireless active Hi-Fi system. It can connect to various digital and analog sources via cables, including HDMI ARC, as well as wirelessly via Bluetooth, allowing for completely wireless music playback. Sound Hub Compact can be placed on a table, shelf, in furniture, or directly on the wall using slots on the back panel.
The system will automatically power on when a previously paired Bluetooth device is connected and playing. An intuitive control app provides automatic input switching and volume adjustment based on the source.
Wireless Connection
Partly due to the use of a relatively uncongested radio frequency band, and partly thanks to a proprietary wireless protocol designed specifically for audio data transmission, the wireless connection between Sound Hub Compact and OBERON C offers the highest stability and virtually zero packet loss. However, error correction is applied preemptively to eliminate the effects of packet loss if it occurs. With a delay of just 15 ms from input to speakers, the system of Sound Hub Compact and OBERON C can be used in audiovisual systems without additional synchronizing correction.
The wireless protocol of Sound Hub Compact is a proprietary 30-bit protocol for transmitting digital streams in the 5.2 GHz or 5.8 GHz bands. The optimal band is automatically selected based on the local radio signal environment. The 30-bit protocol transmits uncompressed I2S audio with a resolution of 24 bits / 96 kHz, with the remaining six bits used for error correction, volume control, speaker identification, and various functional needs.
Thanks to reliable wireless connectivity, the preamplifier can be placed up to 10 meters away from the speakers without the risk of signal loss or interruptions.
Inputs
With five separate audio inputs, almost any audio source can be connected to Sound Hub Compact – digital or analog. A TV alone can be connected in four different ways, not to mention the many possibilities for streaming music sources or traditional audio sources.
Optical
The S/PDIF Input 1 optical input is designed for connecting CD players and other traditional digital audio sources with a digital optical output. The S/PDIF Input 2 optical input is used for connecting TVs with a digital optical output. The automatic input switch function on Input 2 is activated when an optical signal passes through the fiber optic, ensuring that Sound Hub Compact is ready to play TV audio immediately after the TV is turned on.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth supports AAC and aptX codecs, allowing for easy and convenient connection of smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other audio devices to listen to locally stored or streamed music. Even a TV with Bluetooth support can be connected to build a completely wireless system.
Analog
The analog line input is designed to connect traditional audio sources, such as CD players or preamplifiers. Vinyl record players can be connected to Sound Hub Compact if they have a line output or through a phono preamplifier. The analog input is where audiophile traditions meet the future of wireless active Hi-Fi. Analog-to-digital conversion after the input provides a digital audio stream with a resolution of 24 bits / 96 kHz.
Outputs
Sound Hub Compact is equipped with an analog output (line level) to a subwoofer with volume control, which activates automatically when a connected subwoofer is detected. The subwoofer output passes through a low-pass filter at 100 Hz, matched to the frequency characteristics of the main speakers. When a subwoofer is used, the audio signal sent to the main speakers passes through a high-pass filter at 80 Hz to reduce energy below 80 Hz and preserve power for the main frequency range.
USB – Power
Sound Hub Compact features a USB A port for service and diagnostics. The USB port can also be used to charge mobile devices or power streaming devices, such as Amazon Echo or Google ChromeCast Audio, the output of which can be directed to the preamplifier input, potentially integrating voice control into the system.
IR Receiver
Sound Hub Compact features a wired infrared receiver, allowing it to be placed outside the line of sight of the remote control. The IR receiver can optionally be connected to the preamplifier via a port on the back panel. The built-in IR receiver automatically switches off.
Features:
- Wireless transmission of high-resolution 24-bit / 96 kHz sound to DALI CALLISTO C, RUBICON C, and OBERON C systems with low latency;
- Bluetooth 5.0 (including AAC, aptX, aptX HD);
- Inputs: HDMI / ARC, 2x optical (TosLink), L/R RCA;
- Outputs: subwoofer output (RCA);
- Automatic power on/off on all inputs;
- USB connection (charging function only 5V / 1A, e.g. for Chromecast Audio or other compact streaming devices);
- Standby power consumption: 1.7W;
- Included accessories: IR remote control, IR sensor;
- Dimensions (WxHxD) 21.2 x 3.0 x 13.2 cm;
- Weight 0.5 kg.
Package Includes:
- Wireless preamplifier;
- Remote control;
- Power supply;
- Documentation.