Cayin N3 Ultra

El Cayin N3Ultra uses a completely custom operating system that is optimised to focus solely on audio playback.

Creating a device that delivers an authentic and minimalist experience, this Hi-Res player allows users to enjoy the new auditory pleasure provided by vintage JAN 6418 vacuum tubes, within a fully audiophile structure. It features 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm line outputs.

Its design blends touches of classical aesthetics with the most modern details to create a truly special ensemble.

Equipped with two military-grade Raytheon JAN6418 miniature direct-heated NOS pentode vacuum tubes, the N3Ultra offers single-ended line-level and headphone analogue outputs of balanced 3.5 mm to 4.4 mm Y-split cables, each capable of producing vacuum-tube and solid-state tones.

In addition, the custom-moulded, shock-absorbing silicone case is designed to hold and protect the JAN6418 vacuum tube. Designed with pairs of suspension pins on the N3Ultra’s CNC-machined aluminium frame, the JAN6418 hangs vertically, creating a suspended effect.

Instead of using the miniature pentode tube as an audio buffer, the N3Ultra features Cayin’s 3rd-generation Gen3 vacuum tube technology and uses a two-stage ring circuit for the JAN6418.

By varying the connection method of the pentode tube’s screen grid, the JAN6118 incorporates local negative feedback via the screen grid, resulting in two distinct styles of circuit response, distortion and output impedance.

In addition to a 3.5 mm single-ended dedicated line-out, the 4.4 mm balanced output It can be configured as a headphone output or a line-out.

Maximum compatibility with configurable output levels.

• 3.5 mm: 2.1 V (high), 1.6 V (medium), 1.0 V (low)
• 4.4 mm: 4.2 V (high), 3.2 V (medium), 2.0 V (low)

It allows the user to connect the N3Ultra to a a range of home audio devices and laptops.

Line Out is a fixed-voltage line-level output that bypasses the volume control and headphone amplification. It serves as high-quality power supply for a headphone amplifier and integrated amplifiers in home audio systems.

The Cayin N3Ultra can be used in a variety of situations:

• DAC/Digital Transport
  • USB Audio (Input/Output) – USB-C
  • Coaxial S/PDIF (Output) – Embedded USB-C
• Amplifier/Active speakers (Line output)
  • 3.5mm single-ended
  • 4.4mm balanced (Shared)
• Headphones:
  • 3.5mm single-ended
  • 4.4mm balanced (Shared)

One 10-band parametric equaliser It is designed specifically for the N3Ultra and offers limitless sound-tuning possibilities.

It allows for detailed customisation of IEM pairing according to listening preferences, creating a personalised audio experience tailored to the user.

The dual DAC chipset operates in mono mode to provide a fully differential output. The discrete DAC chips and the analogue audio circuits for each channel minimise crosstalk, improving audio clarity and stereo separation.

As for battery specifications, the N3Ultra offers us:

• Powerful 3.85 V 4500 mAh lithium battery with a carefully tuned power management system.

• Up to 11.8 hours of continuous playback with a 3.5 mm single-ended IEM in solid-state timbre mode, and 7.6 hours with a 4.4 mm balanced IEM in valve timbre mode.

• Charges quickly with QC 3.0; it can charge your DAP from 20 % to 80 % in approximately 1 hour.

The Cayin N3Ultra embraces everything you need. Through a TF card you can expand the storage even further using USB OTG for flash drives and card readers.

Its 4.1″ 720 x 1280 touchscreen delivers fast response times and high frame rates for clear, wide-angle viewing with intuitive operation.

Additionally, it features physical knobs and buttons located on the top of the device, all coming in at a weight of just 204g, making it perfect for one-handed use and carrying in your pocket.

It runs on an Android-based system with a Qualcomm 425 CPU and features a custom user interface for smooth and responsive control.

Finally, the laser-perforated side-mounted tube window illuminates with a warm glow while the music plays, enhancing the immersive musical atmosphere.

• 1 x N3Ultra
• 1 x silicone protective case
• 1 x tempered glass screen protector
• 1 x USB-C cable
• 1 x user manual
• 2 x Hi-Res Audio stickers