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UHA-HQ "Phase4" tape deck 'Golden Ear Award' winner.
September 2010
The Absolute Sound Magazine
The Tape Project and The UHA-HQ Tape Decks Review
By Jonathan Valin
I myself highly recommend the modified TASCAM decks from United Home Audio
which I gave a Golden Ear Award to in issue 202.
...on the best Tape Project titles,
it is without question the most realistic source component I've tried.
It is also exceedingly easy to use and a snap to setup.
...you will get more dimensional imaging, finer low-level resolution, somewhat truer timbres, simply phenomenal dynamics, astonishinly wide and deep
soundstaging, and greater overall realism on select 15ips tapes, and on the best of them, such as the Arnold Overtures, you will, as I said above,
get a sound that comes closer to the sound of a full orchestra in a real hall than any other recorded medium I've heard.
UHA INTRODUCES!
"THE" newest / oldest, and simply the best
"High Resolution Audio" format
HQ REEL TO REEL TAPE DECKS.
We now have several models available all based on "Professional decks".
The workhorse decks are made for a professional recording studio and will provide precision performance
over the long haul. These decks were manufactured until 2003 or 2004 and are built like a tank, almost as heavy too.
We chose this deck because it is compatable with The Tape Project tapes and offers a host of professional features.
But foremost was the fact that these are not 40 year old decks like the Technics 1500's, Studer's, or Revox's.
A 40 year old deck like a 40 year old car will have it's mechanical problems, not to mention parts will not be available.
That's why we can offer a two year parts and labor warranty on the UHA-HQ decks!
Any shipping charges are not included in warranty.
IMPORTANT NOTE ON TAPE DECK PURCHASES!
Most other tape decks being modified for Master Tape playback are set up for playback only, they do not record.
The Decks using an external head amp are set up for playback only.
If this is the type deck you are interested in compare them to the UHA Phase5 $7998 and Phase6 $9998 decks.
However as an added benefit bear in mind that the Phase5 and Phase6 decks do record quite well.
Phase 7, Phase8, and Phase9 decks, are optomized for recording as well as playback, therefore the higher prices.
The old model Phase4 deck was the review deck that Jonathan Valin said was the
best sounding source component he had ever heard! It was awarded a "Golden Ear"
Award from The Absolute Sound magazine in 2010.
The new model decks are superior in sound quality, come by the store
or see us at an audio show for an audition.
All UHA decks include the following.
1.) Tape size: 1/4” tape, switchable reel size 5", 7" or 10 1/2" reels.
2.) Tape head: 2 track sometimes called half track heads because each channel
uses half of the tape for stereo. This results in maximum signal on the tape and the best sound.
3.) Tape speed: Selectable 7 1/2 inches per second or 15 inches per second record and playback.
4.) EQ Switch: Select either NAB or IEC record and playback, (IEC produces the best sound).
5.) Servo-controlled tape tension:
All UHA decks come standard with "servo tape control",
this actually feeds the exact amount of power to the motors as
determined by the tape tension guides. A feature usually found on
only large industrial studio console decks.
6.) Sealed bearings on the idlers:
This assures a smooth tape flow, reduses drag and wow and flutter.
7.) XLR or RCA inputs and outputs: Full featured deck with both XLR and RCA inputs and outputs.
8.) Upgraded RCA connectors: with UHA custom selectable RCA output of
+6db or +12db. The output is easily selectable via a toggle switch on the rear of the unit.
The result is a much more dynamic output from the RCA outputs
and on +12db is quite suitable for low power tube playback.
9.) The Tape Project Playback: All decks are set up and ready to playback
"The Tape Project" Master Tapes.
Every machine has 7 1/2 inch per second or 15 inch per second playback or record.
Will play 10 1/2" Reels
Has a switch on the front faceplate to select either IEC or NAB playback or record.
IEC is the best sounding record or playback EQ setting at 15ips; IEC is required for "The Tape Project" playback.
Option / Price list with explanations below.
Starting at only $7998
We have 5 packages that simplify your choices, call or come
by the store for further details. We can simplify your choices and create
a deck within your budget.
NEW! October 2011
Phase5PB Deck = $6998
1.) Unity5 preamp: Complete preamp redesign that provides a more direct signal path
resulting in improved playback or recording.
2.) Removal of numerous FET's in the audio control signal path.
3.) Black gloss, Silver, or Red, Porsche quality paint.
4.) NEW SSC audiophile quality vibration canceling feet in black gloss.
5.) Custom 10.5" NAB hubs in black.
Redesign of Playback Preamp:
This all new circuitry removes the syncro circuit, muting circuit, fixed output circuit,
these are entire circuits composed of 38 FET’s that inhibit the purity of the signal path.
A newly designed high end playback preamp gives a great sound to the playback of The Tape Project tapes. There are extremely high end components in the Phase3 preamp, the latest high end electronic components on the market are employed in this cost no object redesign. This is not a just a capacitor or resistor “modifiers upgrade” this is a step back analyze and redesign done by experienced electrical engineers with 30 years of experience. The latest and best Quality Burr Brown IEC’s, an esoteric choice in Capacitors, high end shielded wiring. Even the same High Quality gold relay used in the Conrad Johnson Art preamp is used as a switching device between input and playback, this change alone will eliminate 8 FET’s in the signal path!
This redesign of the playback preamp results in the deck’s playback capabilities having an undeniably superior realism, more powerful dynamics, and a beautiful three dimensional soundstage.
Please note:
The newest technology (and newest electronic components)
employed in the following 3 units will far surpass
the capabilities of a stock 30 or 40 year old tape deck,
regardless of brand or model.
New! October 2011
Phase6PB Deck = $8998
1.) Unity6 preamp plus the UHA-HQ Playback tape head!
This head was chosen after a year long exhaustive search for the best sounding head in the world!
Six tape heads were auditioned, different manufacturers, different outputs and different impeadences were auditioned.
The chosen head had a completly new output value and impeadence that is made only for United Home Audio.
Also custom "cans" were fitted over the heads to shield noise from thee head, providing an ultra quiet head for record or playback.
The UHA-HQ heads are bolted to the headblock, and aligned by a special optic device to assure perfect alignment.
Because they are bolted to the head block they will never goi out of alignment.
The UHA Heads are made of steel so they will give a lifetime of service with virtually no worry of head wear.
2.) The new Unity6 HQ Playback also requires an all out redesign of the preamp specifically
for the UHA-HQ Playback Head.
New direct circuit path playback preamp design.
Hand matched esoteric electronic components, even capicitors with silk dielectric.
New internal wiring, double shielded high quality cast silver wire and single crystal copper wire are chosen for their individual
charastics to compliment the different signal paths of the deck.
New output connectors, Furtech Gold XLR's and Gold RCA's
New 15 amp IEC for use with a high quality power cable.
Remember this deck like all UHA decks does record as well.
The tape recording capabilities of reel to reel decks is awesome, legendary in fact.
New UHA-HQ head on the right, stock head on the left, big difference!
The new hand-made UHA-HQ Playback head is an all out assault on the best playback possible in the world at this time.
This head is 5 times as big as a stock head and caused its own set of challenges getting it to fit on the Tascam head block.
However it was done and works perfectly to say the least, it must be heard to be believed.
This was the deck that Jonathan Valin awarded “Best Source Component” of the RMAF 2009! What else can be said?
NEW! January 2011
Phase 7 Deck = $11,500
1.) Unity7 preamp plus the UHA-HQ Record head.
The same attention to detail with the playback head was employed in the choice for the Record head.
This head was chosen after a year long exhaustive search for the best sounding head in the world!
Five record tape heads were auditioned, different manufacturers, different outputs and different impeadences were auditioned.
Also custom "cans" were fitted over the heads to shield noise from thee head, providing an ultra quiet head for record or playback.
The UHA-HQ heads are bolted to the headblock, and aligned by a special optic device to assure perfect alignment.
Because they are bolted to the head block they will never goi out of alignment.
The UHA Heads are made of steel so they will give a lifetime of service with virtually no worry of head wear.
2.) An all out redesign of the record preamp using the all new "Unity-7" REC preamp design.
The new Unity8 record preamp was a step back and all out assault on what could be accomplished with the output of the finest 1/4" tape head in the world and a preamp.
It has been 3 years in development and the work of two high end audio engineers, there have been several "final" configurations that lead to a breakthrough in design that
resulted in the Unity7 preamp. Soaring crystal pure highs, dynamic midrange forces, and subterranean hyper pure bass notes that will send your system to new levels of performance.
The type of sound that only tape can produce has now gone to a new level.
The new record preamp was specifically designed as one with the UHA-HQ record head.
If you want to be able to make the finest recordings then this is your deck! Record from vinyl and you will be amazed.
Like the UHA-HQ playback head this head is 5 times the size of the stock head and was a challenge getting it to fit on the head block.
It required a redesign of the block but in the end it was a smashing success. All UHA-HQ heads are bolted in place for a lifetime of perfectly aligned recording.
NEW! January 2011
Phase 8 deck $15,000
NEW! 2011 The Phase8.
1.) An all new UHA HQ dedicated audiophile toroidal
power supply just for the Unity8 preamps!
2.) All new "Unity8" REC and PB Preamp Design.
The new Unity8 preamp was a step back and all out assault on what could be accomplished with the output of the finest 1/4" tape head
in the world and a preamp. It has been 3 years in development and the work of two high end audio engineers, there have been
several "final" configurations that lead to a breakthrough in design that resulted in the Unity8 Preamp.
Soaring crystal pure highs, dynamic midrange forces, and subterranean hyper pure bass notes
that will send your system to new levels of performance you cannot imagine.
The type of sound that only tape can produce has now gone to a new level.
Complete with the best dedicated supporting components available.
This gives that last measure of purity noticeable in the upper midrange and high end.
The Pro Tascam deck we chose for the UHA-HQ decks allows for a cable from tape head to the preamps
of only about 3". This ultra short signal path further cuts noise in the audio signal path.
We use "single crystal" double shielded cable to give that last layer of a quiet pure signal off the heads.
This along with the new Unity8 preamp provides the ultimate in dynamics from the highest
to the lowest frequencies.
UHA Backs up what we say, we have UHA-HQ tape decks available for demo 6 days a week in our retail store.
Come listen for yourself!
After months of listening trials with a panel of audiophiles (thanks guys!) we have come to a unanimous decision on the final Phase8 deck January 2011.
This decision was not left to one designer, or one engineer, or just one set of ears. The final winner of the Phase8 shootout was an easy and quick choice by the group.
We had narrowed the choices down finally to three versions in the Phase 8 deck each with it's own merits. But in the end there could be only one and it was a very easy determination
by the group. Of course it was the configuration with the most expensive pieces and parts but they really made a difference. The soundstage is huge and the dynamics are right on the edge
of realism, there is also a feeling of ultimate clarity and extension, most noticable in the upper midrange and the highs.
We remove the 7.5ips capabilities and the NAB EQ capabilities in both playback and record modes. The deck is now optimized for only 15ips and IEC EQ operation in both playback and record. This also removes from the preamps all circuitry associated with those operations and they are numerous! The wiring is redesigned to provide a direct signal path through the PB and REC preamps with the shortest signal path possible.
The playback volume pots have been removed from the signal path and that entire circuit shortened to remove any distortion associated with that circuit. Of course we have used the latest and finest electrical components available today throughout the preamps.
The Phase6 deck includes Furutech Gold XLR connectors for input and output, also the Furutech Gold 15 amp IEC connector!
This is the statement in a reel to reel tape deck packaged in a one box consumer sized unit. The newest technology in these units will far surpass the capabilities of a 30 or 40 year old tape deck. With the Phase 8 deck you will hear a clear ultra pure representation of the recorded music. The dynamics and soundstaging are the ultimate expression of the source component. The benefit of the Phase 8 deck is that recordings made on the deck sparkle with purity in the high end, pound you with three dimensional midrange dynamics, and make the room shudder with ultra clean bass.
This deck is better than the deck that won Valin’s “Best Source Component” of the RMAF 2009!
Phase8, "2 speed" now available $16,500.
All the Phase6 features above but with 7.5 inched per second playback and record functions.
NAB eq is also included for 7.5 ips playback and recording optimization.
The Phase9 deck $17,000
Phase9 featuring the superior Unity9 preamp,
top of the line for both playback and recording.
All NEW January 2012!
Phase9PB deck only $9998
Complete Phase9 playback electronics and UHA-HQ Record head with stock recording.
Most decks that are being made for the new Master Tape playback do not record at all,
or they use outboard head amps (playback preamps) that do not have anything
to do (good or bad) with the recording process. Now you can have the superior sound
of the UHA Phase9 playback, featuring the same UHA-HQ playback tape head and
Unity9 playback electronics at a lower price.
Yes, like all UHA decks you can always upgrade to any configuration you want, even a full blown Phase9 at any time.
All new for 2012
Another step in the evolution of the UHA decks!
The Phase9 decks feature the new UNITY9 Preamps availabe for RECORDING and PLAYBACK your choice, choose one or both.
We were very happy with The Phase8 deck, it is fantastic, a trend maker, a dynamic powerhouse.
The Phase9 is all that as well, but the Phase9 has the last measure of inner detail and organic information.
There is simply more there, the sound is even more alive and... organic / natural / voluptuous.
The Phase9 project started with a some new component discoveries.
1.) New esoteric capacitor discoveries.
2.) New cast silver and copper wire discoveries.
3.) New audiophile power transformers.
4.) New EQ capacitors.
5.) A change in various electronic component values that brought more weight to the sound.
6.) These improvments were employed in both the record and the playback preamps.
The bottom like was a new preamp design for the Unity9 preamp, some features of this new purity in circuitry involved
eliminating additional coupling (DC blocking) caps and also adjusting several cap values.
This new Unity9 preamp is now closer to a DC-coupled design. This resulted in a measurable difference
with cleaner bass response and equally as important, better phase response in the low end.
Another key was three types of all new capacitors, some with revolutionary new constriction, one actually uses real silk as a dialectic!
Peter Moncrief was kind enough to custom "hot rod" some of his very costly"Stealth" capacitors for the UHA deck!
Finding and mixing this melange of new esoteric parts was quite a task, it involved several different configurations before choosing the most desirable combination.
This was a year long trial period that involved several test deck configurations before the final Phase9 was done.
The EQ caps were changed to special new value Auri Caps that seemed to offer another layer of detail
and most important what can only described as a layer of velvet to the sound.
The esoteric Silk caps were true to the composition of their dialectic, just silky smooth.
And Peter Moncrief's "Stealth Caps" were transparent and amazingly focused for that extreme detail.
These three components offered a focus and clarity that is easily heard, so say our panel of six listeners who are kind enough to offer their time and ears to
assist Greg Beron in his design objectives.
This exotic mixture of preamp design with esoteric hand made parts found the last measure of electronic control across the entire audio spectrum.
But the goal was to still keep the dynamic sound that the UHA decks are known for.
The surprise of the Phase9 was the frightening dynamics due to the increase in bass purity of the new Unity9 preamp , in fact during bench testing it was determined that
to keep the custom "voicing" that Greg Beron worked on for 8 months to perfect, the internal EQ's needed adjusting to actually lower output at certain frequencies.
With this new Unity3 preamp Greg wanted to have a balanced top end to the very bottom frequencies in complete balance, then let the purity
of the preamp shine through with it's own sonic signature. Many trial listening sessions with the 6 listening experts using Tape Project" Master Tapes
determined that the new Phase9 was the pinnacle of playback decks so far.
Phase 9 Record Preamp:
The record preamp was given equal attention in the Phase9 as the playback preamp. All the same esoteric parts, changes, and adjustments, were employed.
This new Phase9 preamp required a new voicing of the record preamp to match the playback preamp and we are happy with the result.
The recordings made with this new deck are so close to the original, people think that recordings from vinyl are master tapes.
RMAF 2011 Report - Analog Sources
Posted by: Jacob Heilbrunn at 3:03 pm, October 19th, 2011
Jacob Heilbrunn's RMAF 2011 Report
But the most memorable cut for me was listening to Lee Morgan’s “The Sidewinder” at United Home Audio’s room
on a $17,000 Phase9 Tascam machine, which boasts, among other things, capacitors with silk as the dielectric.
It sounded amazing.
RMAF 2011 Report -
Loudspeakers Priced at $20,000 and Up
Posted by: Jonathan Valin at 2:02 pm, October 19th, 2011
Jonathan Valins RMAF 2011 report
From MBL I went down to the second floor and heard the $30k Von Schweikert VR5 Anniversary multiway floorstanders,
driven by Jolida electronics and sourced by Greg Beron’s UHA Phase 9 reel-to-reel 15ips tape deck.
The sound was excellent.
Tonality, spaciousness, dynamics—all first-rate. Of course, in a way this room was unfair.
Greg was playing back Tape Project mastertapes, including a freshly minted Beethoven Ninth,
and when they’re good those tapes are hard to beat.
Jonathan Valin, The Absolute Sound, says of the UHA decks,
"On the orchestral tracks I listened to (dubbed from LP by Beron), the sound was just terrific.
Open, detailed, dynamic as all get-out, and quite realistic. Another one of the best sounds at RMAF."
Jim Hannon Publisher of The Absolute Sound says,
"you can get surprisingly close to capturing many of their remarkable sonic attributes with a first-rate quarter-inch deck,
such as the marvelous United Home Audio UHA-HQ Phase Six with its upgraded electronics. When playing Tape Project tapes
(among others) through this retro tape-based front-end, my own home system has never sounded better."