Description
From CDs and vinyl to state-of the-art hi-res network streaming, the Audiolab Omnia is the all-in-one, just-add-speakers hi-fi system that does it all, and does it in style.
For its newest creation, audiolab has distilled its know-how across these component categories into
a single chassis. The result is an all-in-one, just-add-speakers music system that audiolab calls the
Omnia.
Housed in a beautifully engineered aluminium enclosure with a crisp, minimalist aesthetic, the Omnia caters for a music lover’s every need – from digital streaming to physical CD and vinyl collections. It sports an integrated CD player, extensive inputs for external sources – including a phono stage for a turntable – hi-res network streaming, the ability to form part of a synchronised multi-room system and high-quality amplification to make the most of whichever speakers or headphones the user chooses to partner it with. Most importantly, the quality of its internal design right down to each individual circuit component – ensures that however you use it, the Omnia delivers a level of sonic performance more readily expected of bulkier and more expensive multi-component hi-fi systems.
The ideal system for every music source
Streaming has become the predominant way in which many people listen to music, which is why contemporary all-one-music systems often focus on this aspect. This is a critical part of the Omnia’s design too, with hi-res network streaming supported over dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet cable, alongside Bluetooth for wireless connection to smartphones, tablets and so on. But audiolab recognises that plenty of people continue to own, and wish to listen to, physical music collections –however you choose to listen to your music, the Omnia has it covered.
These days, an integrated CD player is rare to find in a single-box music system. The Omnia’s transport
mechanism is engineered to make the most of any still-treasured CD collection, incorporating a high-precision optical system and low-friction loading tray, with an electronic data buffer and sturdy aluminium base and chassis to tackle vibration.
For vinyl lovers, the integral MM phono stage features a high-quality, low-noise, JFET-based circuit with
precise RIAA equalisation – just add your chosen turntable. Other external sources can be connected
via a range of digital (asynchronous USB and S/PDIF) and line-level analogue inputs, utilising the Omnia’s high-performance DAC, analogue preamp and power amp stages. Further versatility is provided by the ability to bypass the separate amp stages, giving the option to connect an external preamplifier or power amplifier.
Digital delights
Despite its attractive simplicity, the Omnia sports cutting-edge sophistication beneath the skin. At the
heart of its digital circuitry nestles the ES9038Q2M – a top-spec, new-generation chipset from the
eminent 32-bit Sabre family – accompanied by proprietary circuitry to make the most of ESS Technology’s HyperStream II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator for ultra-low noise and
high dynamic range.
Engineered for awesome audio
With many generations of award-winning designs under its belt, audiolab knows a thing or two about
amp design. The Omnia’s analogue circuits harness this wealth of experience to compelling sonic
effect, its preamp and power amp stages incorporating short, direct signal paths and high-quality
components to preserve sonic purity.
Volume is adjusted in the analogue domain under microprocessor control, outputting directly to the
Class AB output stage. This delivers 50W per channel into 8 ohms, with maximum current of 9 Amps
into difficult loads – sufficient to drive whichever speakers the user chooses to pair with the Omnia.
Many all-in-one streaming systems use Class D amplification, favoured for its space-saving, cool-running power and efficiency. However, Class D designs can sound somewhat hard and sterile; audiolab’s Class AB amp circuitry gives the Omnia a sonic advantage, coupling engaging energy with subtlety and warmth.
The output stage uses a CFB (Complementary Feedback) topology, ensuring superior linearity and
excellent thermal stability, as the idle current is kept independent of the temperature of the output transistors. A substantial 200VA toroidal transformer, followed by 4x15000uF reservoir capacity (60000uF in total), helps the Omnia to maintain firm control of the music whilst enabling excellent dynamic range.
A streamer’s dream
Network streaming is powered by DTS Play-Fi: an app-controlled platform enabling high-quality, whole-home wireless audio, capable of streaming hi-res music up to 24-bit/192kHz and supported by a greater range of established audio brands than any other wireless platform.
