Overview

The HiFiMAN Goldenwave Prelude is a Class A discrete MOSFET headphone amplifier priced at 2,499 USD [1][2]. This fully balanced design features comprehensive connectivity including 4.4mm balanced, XLR 4-pin balanced, and combo dual outputs, alongside both RCA and XLR inputs [2][3]. The amplifier delivers up to 10W at 32Ω with measured specifications showing 113dB SNR and 0.0009% THD+N [1]. Housed in a single-piece aluminum chassis weighing 14.3 lbs, the Prelude represents HiFiMAN’s premium amplifier offering in their product lineup [2].

Scientific Validity

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The Prelude demonstrates good measured performance based on manufacturer specifications [1]. The SNR of 113dB significantly exceeds the transparent level of 105dB, while THD+N at 0.0009% is well below the 0.01% transparency threshold [1]. Output impedance remains sub-1Ω, providing adequate damping for most headphones [3]. The frequency response range of 20-50kHz exceeds standard requirements, though specific deviation data is unavailable [1]. Power output capabilities reach 10W at 32Ω, 6W at 64Ω, and scale appropriately across impedance ranges [1]. However, these specifications rely on manufacturer claims rather than independent third-party measurements, necessitating conservative evaluation.

Technology Level

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The Prelude employs conventional headphone amplifier technology without significant technical differentiation [2][3]. The fully discrete Class A MOSFET design uses quality components including ALPS RK27 “Blue Velvet” potentiometer and toroidal transformer, representing solid implementation of established technology [3]. However, the design lacks proprietary innovations, patent technology, or cutting-edge advancements that would distinguish it from competitive offerings. The pure analog approach without digital integration, software capabilities, or advanced technological adoption limits its technology score. While the implementation appears competent, no technical barriers prevent competitors from achieving equivalent results.

Cost-Performance

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This site evaluates based solely on functionality and measured performance values, without considering amplifier classes or circuit topologies. Cost-performance analysis reveals significant challenges for the Prelude at 2,499 USD [1]. The Singxer SA-1 at 599 USD provides equivalent user-facing functions with superior SNR (147dB vs 113dB) and matching connectivity options [4][1]. Similarly, the Topping A90 Discrete at 599 USD offers superior measured performance with 145dB SNR and <0.00006% THD+N compared to the Prelude’s 113dB SNR and 0.0009% THD+N, plus equivalent output capabilities [5][1]. Both alternatives are equipped with balanced/single-ended inputs and outputs, and measured performance is equivalent-or-better [4][5]. CP = 599 USD ÷ 2,499 USD = 0.2.

Reliability & Support

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HiFiMAN provides standard support infrastructure with global customer service availability [2]. The Prelude receives a 1-year manufacturer warranty, which is at the lower end of typical coverage periods [2]. A 30-day refund period applies for products purchased through authorized channels [1]. Support requires purchase verification from authorized dealers including official HiFiMAN stores and recognized retailers [2]. The amplifier construction appears standard for the category without specific durability advantages or disadvantages noted [3]. No independent failure rate data or long-term reliability track record is available for evaluation.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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HiFiMAN demonstrates a measurement-focused development approach that aligns with scientific audio engineering principles, consistently avoiding pseudoscientific claims or unmeasurable effects marketing [2][3]. However, the Prelude’s design philosophy raises rationality concerns regarding cost-effectiveness. The majority of the 2,499 USD cost appears unrelated to measured performance improvements when 599 USD alternatives achieve equivalent or superior results [1][4][5]. The conventional analog-only approach lacks advanced technological integration through digital processing, software capabilities, or modern engineering approaches that could justify premium positioning [2][3]. While the scientific foundation is sound, the design represents conservative analog amplification without innovation or cost optimization that would benefit users.

Advice

The HiFiMAN Prelude delivers competent amplification with good measured specifications, making it technically capable for high-end headphone driving [1]. However, potential purchasers should carefully consider the significant cost-performance gap, as alternatives like the Singxer SA-1 or Topping A90 Discrete provide equivalent or superior functionality at approximately one-fourth the cost [4][5]. The Prelude may appeal to users specifically seeking HiFiMAN brand aesthetics or build quality, but purely performance-focused buyers will find better value elsewhere. The 1-year warranty period is shorter than many competitors, adding support-related considerations [2]. Those prioritizing maximum technical value should explore the documented alternatives before committing to this premium-priced option [4][5].

References

[1] Bloom Audio, HiFiMAN Goldenwave PRELUDE Class A Headphone Amplifier, https://bloomaudio.com/products/hifiman-goldenwave-prelude, accessed 2025-11-26

[2] HiFiMAN, GOLDENWAVE PRELUDE, https://www.hifiman.com/products/detail/341, accessed 2025-11-26

[3] Headfonics, HIFIMAN Prelude Review, https://headfonics.com/hifiman-prelude-review/, accessed 2025-11-26

[4] Soundnews, Singxer SA-1 Class-A Headphone Amplifier Review, https://soundnews.net/amplifiers/headphone-amps/singxer-sa-1-class-a-headphone-amplifier-review/, accessed 2025-11-26

[5] Soundnews, Topping A90 Discrete Review – Forging Ahead, https://soundnews.net/amplifiers/headphone-amps/topping-a90-discrete-review-forging-ahead/, accessed 2025-11-26

(2025.11.30)