If the previous page still left you with questions, here are some answers. "The A/D converter we use for the analog inputs is the 24-bit AKM AK5394AVS. The external power brick just works as DC converter to deliver 24VDC to our switching power supplies. Those convert the power sine wave into a more efficient square wave. The big transformers and linear power supply of our previous designs in fact were weaknesses. They resulted in very high impedance and very slow delivery of current which meant big power supply smoothing capacitors impeded current delivery. Our MCPS is a sub 1Ω design and delivers power directly to the output devices. That's why on paper, Conductor 3 is no more powerful than Conductor 2 was but due to our new faster high-current power supplies feels far more powerful, responsive and accurate.

"For the input stage we use Toshiba 2SK170 Fets like we do in our discrete opamps. The output stage gets complimentary Toshiba bipolars, 2SA1930 and 2SC5171 pairs.

"This combination of Fet inputs and biopolar outputs achieves a well-balanced sound. And although it's named Conductor 3, it's actually our 4th generation all-in-one Burson we started in 2010 with the HA-160D that you reviewed and awarded. The HA-160D was introduced at a time when most audio equipment, even headfi, was big, heavy and pretty harsh on the eye. Those qualities were marketed as necessary tradeoffs for high-end performance. The HA-160D proved that something could sound and look great and still be easy to use.

"With the Conductor 3 Reference in its new CoolCase™, we once again take the same concept to an even higher level.

Conductor 3X

"Finally, we were never 'categorically opposed to op-amps'. We were and still are pointing out shortcomings associated with using IC-based general-purpose opamps in the signal path. That's why our V6 opamps are fully discrete circuits sitting on 8 pins. They overcome some of the shortcomings of IC opamps."