LAiV Crescendo CHORUS GaN Power Amplifier | Stereo & Mono

Description

LAiV Crescendo CHORUS GaN Stereo Power Amplifier

The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS is a compact GaN power amplifier designed for high-end two-channel and desktop audio systems. Derived from the Harmony GaNM, CHORUS brings Gallium Nitride amplification technology into the Crescendo series with flexible stereo and bridge-mono operation.

In stereo mode, the amplifier delivers 50W per channel into 8Ω and 80W per channel into 4Ω. Switch to bridge mono mode and a single CHORUS delivers 120W of true balanced output, with operation stable down to 2Ω.

GaN Amplification

At the heart of the LAiV Crescendo CHORUS is Gallium Nitride transistor technology. GaN devices switch significantly faster than conventional silicon MOSFETs, helping the amplifier achieve wide bandwidth, low distortion and high efficiency.

LAiV combines the GaN output stage with carefully tuned signal modulators and driver circuitry to deliver transparency, speed and dynamic precision while maintaining a natural and engaging presentation.

Two Modes. One Amplifier.

CHORUS can operate as either a conventional stereo power amplifier or as a true balanced bridge-mono amplifier.

This gives the user the freedom to start with a single unit and later upgrade to a dual-mono configuration by adding a second CHORUS.

Derived from the Harmony GaNM

The Crescendo CHORUS inherits the core GaN amplification technology developed for the LAiV Harmony GaNM, but packages it in a more compact and accessible platform.

A 160W power supply, high-bandwidth circuit design and efficient thermal management allow CHORUS to deliver much of the speed and clarity associated with the larger Harmony amplifier while remaining easy to integrate into smaller systems.

Built to Protect

The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS includes advanced protection for both the amplifier and connected loudspeakers.

A microcontroller performs a startup verification before the amplifier becomes active, while dedicated circuits monitor for DC offset, excessive current and abnormal temperature.

LAiV Crescendo CHORUS Stereo Mode

In stereo mode, CHORUS operates as a two-channel single-ended amplifier, delivering 50W per channel into 8Ω and 80W per channel into 4Ω.

Both balanced XLR and single-ended RCA inputs are supported. Although the internal amplification remains single-ended in this mode, the balanced input is recommended where lower noise, improved SNR and longer cable runs are important.

Bridge Mono Mode

Switching to bridge mono transforms the amplifier into a fully differential, true balanced design.

In this mode, a single input is internally converted into a balanced signal and both amplification channels work together to deliver 120W into 8Ω or 4Ω, while remaining stable down to 2Ω.

Maximum instantaneous output can reach approximately 165W.

Recommended Dual-Mono Configuration

Using two LAiV Crescendo CHORUS amplifiers in bridge-mono mode creates a fully separated dual-mono system. Each amplifier drives one loudspeaker channel with its own power supply and amplification stage.

This configuration removes inter-channel crosstalk and provides greater electrical separation, improved imaging and increased dynamic authority.

Balanced and Single-Ended Inputs

CHORUS provides both XLR balanced and RCA single-ended inputs. Input selection is available directly on the amplifier.

In bridge mono mode, even the RCA input is internally converted to a balanced signal path so that the fully differential output architecture can operate as intended.

Designed for Always-On Operation

Thanks to the high efficiency of GaN amplification, the chassis itself functions as the heatsink and remains only mildly warm during normal operation. No fan or active cooling system is required.

Standby consumption remains very low, while idle consumption is below 20W, making the amplifier practical for long listening sessions and always-ready systems.

LAiV Crescendo CHORUS Technical Specifications

• Amplifier Type: GaN-based Class D Power Amplifier
• Operating Modes: Stereo / RCA Mono / XLR Mono
• Stereo Power: 50W per channel @ 8Ω
• Stereo Power: 80W per channel @ 4Ω
• Mono Power: 120W @ 8Ω / 4Ω
• Minimum Load: Stable down to 2Ω in mono mode
• Maximum Instantaneous Output: Approx. 165W
• Damping Factor: Approx. 200 @ 1kHz / 8Ω
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 80kHz ±3dB
• THD+N: <0.005% at 5W / 8Ω
• SNR: ≥100dB
• XLR Input Impedance: Approx. 94kΩ
• RCA Input Impedance: Approx. 47kΩ
• Gain: 22dB XLR stereo / 28dB XLR mono / 28dB RCA stereo / 34dB RCA mono
• Speaker Outputs: Binding posts
• Protection: DC offset, over-current, over-temperature
• Firmware: Upgradeable via microSD
• Mains Input: 100–260VAC, 50/60Hz
• Standby Consumption: ≤0.5W
• Idle Consumption: ≤20W
• Maximum Power Consumption: ≤160W
• Weight: Approx. 1.5kg per unit
• Finish: Black & Gold or Silver & Gold anodised aluminium
• Warranty: 24 months

Compact GaN Power for Modern High-End Systems

The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS combines compact dimensions with flexible system architecture, allowing it to function as a conventional stereo amplifier or as part of a higher-performance dual-mono system.

Its combination of GaN technology, wide bandwidth, strong damping and flexible input options makes it suitable for both traditional high-end loudspeaker systems and compact desktop installations.

For a matching DAC, preamplifier and headphone amplifier, see the

LAiV Crescendo VERSE
.

For official information, visit the

official LAiV Crescendo CHORUS page
.