Cen.Grand 9i-806 "Little Silver Fox"
Concept and Purpose
The Cen.Grand 9i-806, commonly known as "Little Silver Fox," is a compact version of the highly successful 9i-906 "Silver Fox." It was designed to provide a cost-effective yet audiophile-grade solution for powering high-demand headphones, especially planar magnetic and low-sensitivity models.
Technical Design & Amplification Architecture
At the core of the 9i-806 lies a high-current output stage, optimized for powerful headphone drive. The output section features four pairs of premium British FET transistors, ensuring fast transient response and superior current delivery, crucial for driving complex, low-sensitivity headphones with precision.
Output Power
- 15W @ 30Ω (BTL mode, 0.02% THD)
This level of power enables effortless driving of even the most demanding headphones, such as the HIFIMAN Susvara, without compromise.
Output Modes – Four Configurations for Customization
The 9i-806 offers four amplification modes, allowing users to tailor the performance to their headphone type and listening preferences.
- BTL (Balanced Transformer-Like Mode)
- True balanced drive with enhanced dynamics and power
- Ideal for high-impedance or difficult-to-drive models
- Active Ground Mode
- A unique configuration offering warmer, more harmonic sound
- Excellent for vocals and acoustic recordings
- Parallel Mode
- Combines both output phases for higher current delivery
- Best suited for medium-impedance headphones
- Normal Mode
- Optimized for low-impedance or high-sensitivity headphones
- Available in balanced and single-ended configurations
Impedance Modes & Noise Management
The 9i-806 provides four selectable impedance modes:
- 1 high impedance mode
- 3 low impedance modes (Low 1, Low 2, Low 3)
The high impedance mode is suitable for most headphones, while the low impedance modes are ideal for ultra-sensitive IEMs or high-signal-level systems, helping to reduce background noise without sacrificing power delivery.
Connectivity – Versatile Inputs & Outputs
Headphone Outputs
- 4-pin XLR (balanced)
- 4.4mm (balanced)
- Dual 3-pin XLR (balanced, separate left/right)
- Two 6.35mm jacks (can be used simultaneously in balanced or parallel mode)
Inputs
- 2 × XLR (balanced)
- 2 × RCA (single-ended)
Note: RCA inputs are automatically converted to balanced signals, ensuring full power availability from unbalanced sources. However, XLR input is recommended for optimal performance.
Controls & Usability
The minimalist and intuitive design keeps operation simple and logical, featuring:
- Power button
- Input selector switch
- Output mode selector
- Impedance mode selector (adjustable via long press)
- Analog volume control (potentiometer)
Physical Dimensions
- Width: 430 mm
- Height: 100 mm
- Depth: 330 mm
- Net weight: 6.9 kg
- Gross weight: 8.1 kg
Technical Specifications
Parameter | Specification |
Output Power | 15W @ 30Ω (BTL mode, 0.02% THD) |
Frequency Response | 20Hz – 20kHz (±0.2dB) |
Power Supply | AC 220–230V, 50/60Hz |
