British brand Exposure Electronics has long been renowned for creating high-performance audio components with involving musical reality, yet with an affordable price tag. For high-end audio at mid-range prices, Exposure’s 3010S2 series is widely considered to be one of the best options on the market.
In January 2015, the brand released a new, enhanced ‘D’ edition of its highly successful 3010S2 integrated amplifier, which has just scooped the AV Tech Media Award for ‘Best Stereo Integrated Amplifier 2015/16’. Now the preamp has been given the same upgrade.
Like its predecessor, the new 3010S2-D preamplifier comes with six line level inputs. However, one of these is now a direct AV input to enable integration within a surround sound system. There is still the possibility to fit an optional MM or MC phonostage, which is now joined by the option of a plug-in DAC board. The latter is capable of up to 192/24 bit PCM and DSD 64, and comes with two inputs: USB and BNC, with auto-switching between them. A tape output is included as well as two main outputs to allow for easy bi-amping.
As is the case throughout the 3010S2 series, much attention has been paid to the circuit design in order to extract the best possible sound quality. The 3010S2-D now sports a brand new circuit board which has been remapped and features high quality relays for input selection to ensure the shortest possible signal path. There are no integrated circuits, as the signal path uses all discrete components including special high-quality capacitors. The new power supply includes a large custom-made torodial power transformer and adds extra stages of regulation for improved performance.
This all slots into an attractive, high quality aluminium casing with extruded front panel for improved resonance control and EMF screening. The overall build quality, fit and finish are excellent. Both the front and back panels are graced with clear ergonomics and simplicity in features, with a well laid-out and comprehensive remote control completing the package.
Input impedance 17K Ohms minimum (line input)
Input sensitivity 250mV
Gain 17dB ( x7)
Frequency response 20Hz – 20KHz ± 0.5dB
Total harmonic distortion <0 .005="" 1khz="" at="" i="" output="" rated="" ref="">
Signal to noise ratio >100dB, A-weighted
Channel separation > 60dB @ 20KHz
Mains supply 110/120V or 220/240V, 50/60Hz (factory set)
Power consumption <25va i="">
Dimensions 90mm (h) x 440mm (w) x 300mm (d)
Net weight (unpacked) 5kg
Gross weight (packed) 7kg
Warranty 3 years
Pricing & availability
The Exposure 3010S2-D integrated amplifier is available now in titanium or black, priced at £1,699 (incl. VAT).
Optional additions:
On-board MM phonostage £240
On-board MC phonostage £240
On-board DAC £325