Phasemation CM-2200

Description

Phasemation CM-2200

Control Meister 2200

Product Outline and Concept

Several years ago, Phasemation released their highest-grade hybrid passive attenuator, the Control Meister CM-2000. This innovative device, devoid of active circuits, marked a significant departure from traditional preamplifiers.

Phasemation adopted a patented volume adjustment circuit, based on a groundbreaking idea in volume control—a crucial aspect of audio playback. Additionally, they developed a new attenuator transformer compatible with balanced input/output. This advancement achieved a sharper, more detailed, and expansive soundstage.

Now, after re-examining the attenuator transformer, Phasemation proudly presents the Control Meister CM-2200. It stands as the world’s only passive attenuator with a +6dB amplification function, designed for seamless use in all situations, including high-volume playback with modern low-efficiency speakers and low-gain amplifiers. The CM-2200 sets a new standard in passive attenuation technology.

Awards

Awarder	Description	Image
Ongen Publishing	Audio Excellence Award 2023 Bronze Award
SEIBUNDO SHINKOSHA Publishing	MJ Technology of the Year Separate amplifier Components Honorable Mention
ONGAKU NO TOMO SHA COTP. STEREO magazine	Best Buy Components 2022 Phono equalizer over ¥1200,000 2nd Year Compo

New Functions for CM-2200

Added a gain changing switch (0/+6db)

The balanced specification attenuator transformer winding developed for the CM-2000 has been revised to have a gain of +6dB, taking advantage of the fact that it is a transformer. In this model, a gain changing (0/+6dB) switch has been added to the rear panel, and the variable range of the attenuator is 0dB (0dB to -70dB) or +6dB (+6 dB to -64dB) can be selected. The transformer winding structure has been re-examined to ensure wide-range frequency response and impedance characteristics regardless of which gain is selected so that the CM-2200’s high and clear sound image localization can be enjoyed at either gain.

Main features carried over from CM-2000

Adoption of newly developed high-performance core materials and winding materials

We reviewed the 0.2 mm thick permalloy material that was used previously and newly developed an “extremely thin (0.1mm) super alloy material.” In addition, for the winding material, rather than the high pure copper wires that were used previously, we specially ordered PC triple C polyurethane wires which are optimal wires for audios. In combination with a large core shape, we reached an excellent characteristic of a high low–pass linearity and a delicate and calm high frequency and achieved an expression of a vast space.

Development of optimum winding specified for balance

We reviewed the attenuator transformer winding specifications from the beginning and developed an attenuator transformer for balancing in which two attenuator windings of the hot and cold sides of the balance connection are wound in one transformer. By utilizing the fact that there are two more attenuator windings, it is also possible to create a signal (at the cold side) inside the transformer for the unbalanced input and to support a complete balanced output. Also, a high common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) was also obtained with the two windings that support the balance.

Since the transformer for a balanced sound volume adjustment circuit was composed with one CH1, excellent frequency characteristics and phase characteristics were actualized in a wide band, the phase distortion in the audible band was reduced and most important was that the freshness was high and a clear constant sound image was brought into effect.

Eliminate external induction hums and unnecessary vibrations

For external induction hums, a chassis base with copper plating on a solid 2 mm thick steel plate and a case cover with an induction hum shield is arranged. In addition, the magnetic shield material located near the transformer has a double structure.

The attenuator transformer is floated from the main unit with a high damping rubber material and it prevents external vibrations from propagating. The front panel adopts a 20 mm thick slanted aluminum panel that is equivalent to the control amplifier CA-1000. By adding a walnut material base under the exterior case, unnecessary vibration is effectively eliminated by combining different kinds of materials and brings about playback sounds with a good S/N ratio.

Use of high quality parts

We adopted rhodium plated terminals made by Furutech which are reputed for having high-quality and high sound quality on the input and output terminals.

In addition, the foot adopts TAOC’s high carbon cast iron insulators which contribute to increasing the resolution of the sounds.