Robust power amplifier section delivers 170 watt per channel into 8 ohms or 220 watts per channel into 4 ohms
The power transistors in the output stage are high-current devices designed specifically for audio applications. They possess optimum frequency response as well as excellent forward-current transfer ratio linearity and switching performance characteristics. By using these transistors in a triple parallel push-pull configuration, the amplifier is able to handle load fluctuations with ease. Operation remains stable at all times, even when driving reactive low-impedance loads. The rated output of 170 watts per channel into 8 ohms or 220 watts per channel into 4 ohms provides more than ample performance margin

Current feedback circuit topology in power amplifier and line amplifier sections prevents phase shifts
When the gain of an amplifying circuit increases, frequency response, i.e. the bandwidth that can be handled by the amplifier, becomes more narrow. To counter this effect, a commonly employed echnique called negative feedback (NFB) routes part of the output signal back to the input. Conventional amplifiers employ voltage NFB, whereby the output voltage is used for the feedback loop. In the E-406V however, the signal current rather than the voltage is used for feedback. At the sensing point of the feedback loop, the impedance is kept low and current detection is performed. An impedance-converting amplifier then converts the current into a voltage to be used as the feedback signal. Since the impedance at the current feedback point is very low, there is almost no phase shift. Phase compensation can be kept to a minimum, resulting in excellent transient response and superb sonic transparency.

Discrete-type line amplifier for superior sonic purity
A differential pure complementary push-pull circuit is used, with an emitter follower output stage. Current feedback topology further enhances circuit operation and reduces the need for phase compensation, resulting in effortless, utterly natural and transparent sound.

Highly reliable logic-controlled relays
Program source switching is performed by logic-controlled relays which are arranged so as to permit the shortest possible signal paths. The hermetically sealed relays are high-quality types developed specifically for demanding communication applications. The contacts are twin crossbar types plated with gold for minimum contact resistance and outstanding long-term reliability.

Tone controls use summing active filters for pure sound
The tone control circuitry in the E-406V was specially designed with summing active filters such as found in high-quality graphic equalizers. Figure 5 illustrates the operation principle of this circuit. The flat signal is passed straight through, and only when an adjustment is required, the characteristics are created at F1 and F2 and added to the signal, thereby producing the desired change. This design provides efficient control without degrading signal purity.

Separate power transformers for power amplifier and preamplifier sections
Dedicated high-efficiency toroidal transformers are used for the power amplifier and preamplifier sections, to eliminate the possibility of mutual interference. Toroidal transformers which use heavy-gauge copper wiring on a ring-shaped core have various advantages, such as very low impedance, small size, and high conversion efficiency. These characteristics make this transformer type ideally suited for audio applications. The E-406V uses transformers with near-circular core caliber. This allows near-circular coil windings with high packing density, resulting in low leakage flux and minimum vibrations. In addition, the smaller ferrite core diameter and copper windings with high specific gravity mean low ferrite losses and low inrush current.

Two sets of heavy-duty speaker terminals
The oversize speaker terminals are made of extruded high-purity brass material which accept also heavy-gauge speaker cable. Two sets of outputs with a speaker selector are provided, and bi-wiring (supplying the same signal via dual leads to speakers with separate high-frequency and low-frequency inputs) is also possible.

Versatile input configuration including balanced connectors
The input selector of the E-406V controls a total of eight positions, including two positions for optional input boards installed in rear-panel slots. Two of the standard inputs are designed for balanced connections which are impervious to externally induced noise, ensuring signal transmission with optimum sonic purity.

SEPARATE switch allows independent use of preamplifier and power amplifier sections
Separate preamplifier outputs and power amplifier inputs controlled by a selector switch allow use of the preamplifier section and the power amplifier section as separate components.