Kastor came to fruition after a considerable period was spent formulating a new pre-amplifier specification for use with Artemis.

Although the prime function was to match it with our own amplifiers, it was also intended that Kastor would work well with other high-end audiophile products.

A fundamental look at pre-amplifier technology was undertaken prior to the design of Kastor and at this stage it was decided to take the professional audio approach and use balanced line for both input and output signals.

This offered significant noise reduction advantages, together with eliminating cable length problems that cause high-frequency loss. Individually regulated supplies for each channel, reducing cross talk, line fluctuations and noise were considered essential, as were individually regulated heater supplies.

The power supply is contained in a separate unit connected by a detachable cable. The same power supply is used with the phono amplifier Callisto and is pictured with that product.

Low impedance cathode follower output stages provide necessary current drive to cope with transformer or electrically derived balanced line input circuits thus enabling the pre-amplifier to interface with valve or transistor equipment successfully.

Cathode follower stages are also included in the tape monitor circuit, isolating any potentially damaging signal effect from the source.

Electrical access to the pre-amplifier is via four single-ended and two balanced inputs, as well as common mode and balanced line outputs. A separate tape output is also provided. 

Precision panel controls for input selector, tape selector and master level are positioned on the amplifier front face.