CRESCENDO CHORUS
GaN Stereo Power Amplifier
The LAiV Crescendo CHORUS is a GaN stereo power amplifier with bridge mono capability, derived from the Harmony GaNM. Built on Gallium Nitride amplification technology, CHORUS delivers 50W per channel in stereo mode and 120W of true balanced power in bridge mono, stable from 8Ω down to 2Ω. Compact in form and uncompromising in character, it brings GaN amplifier performance to a Crescendo price point, fitting naturally into both high-end two-channel systems and modern desktop setups.
At
$994.00
Discover the highlights.
GaN Amplification.
GaN technology with ultra-fast switching speed delivers output virtually indistinguishable from analogue. CHORUS is designed with high-performance signal modulators and driver stages, carefully tuned for musicality, transparency, and resolution.
Two Modes. One Amplifier.
50W per channel in single-ended stereo mode. Switch to bridge mono for 120W of true balanced output from a fully differential architecture, stable from 8Ω down to 2Ω.
Derived from GaNM.
CHORUS carries the same core GaN technology as the Harmony GaNM, brought to a more accessible price point in the Crescendo series. High-bandwidth frequency response delivers transparency and resolution that punches well above its class.
Built to Protect.
DC offset, over-current, and over-temperature protection with microcontroller startup verification. Firmware upgradeable via microSD for long-term reliability and future enhancements.
Palette options for the CHORUS.
Ebony black with shimmering gold
Dive deeper into the details.
GaN Technology for Audiophile Amplification.
At the heart of the Crescendo CHORUS is Gallium Nitride (GaN) transistor technology, a fundamental advancement over traditional silicon MOSFETs in audio power amplifier design. GaN transistors switch at ultra-fast speeds, enabling CHORUS to produce an output signal that is virtually indistinguishable from the original analogue waveform. This translates directly into lower total harmonic distortion, wider audio bandwidth, and higher overall efficiency.
Unlike conventional Class D amplifiers that rely on slower switching devices, the GaN power amplifier topology in CHORUS achieves its performance without the thermal penalties and signal degradation that often accompany high power output. The result is an amplifier that runs cooler, occupies less space, and delivers a sound signature that is transparent, dynamic, and effortlessly detailed.
CHORUS is designed with high-performance signal modulators and driver stages, carefully tuned for musicality, transparency, and resolution, balancing technical precision with long-term listening engagement.
Derived from the Harmony GaNM.
CHORUS is a trickle-down design from the LAiV Harmony GaNM, carrying the same core GaN amplification technology to the Crescendo series at a significantly more accessible price point.
CHORUS uses a stamped aluminium chassis and a 160W power supply compared to GaNM's 250W unit. That said, CHORUS still excels in transparency and resolution, thanks to its high-bandwidth frequency response and the inherent advantages of GaN technology. For listeners seeking the musicality and speed of GaN amplification without the premium of the Harmony series, CHORUS delivers precisely that.
Two Modes. One Amplifier.
The Crescendo CHORUS operates in two distinct modes, each optimised for different system configurations and listening priorities. Whether you need a versatile stereo power amplifier or a dedicated mono block with true balanced output, CHORUS adapts to the way you listen.
Stereo Mode.
In stereo mode, CHORUS operates as a single-ended amplifier with two independent channels, delivering 50W per channel into 8Ω or 80W per channel into 4Ω. Both XLR (balanced) and RCA (single-ended) inputs are accepted, though the internal amplification remains single-ended regardless of input type. The balanced input offers better THD and SNR performance. This is the plug-and-play configuration for most two-channel systems, offering broad compatibility with virtually any preamplifier or DAC.
Bridge Mono Mode.
Switching to bridge mono mode transforms CHORUS into a fully differential, true balanced amplifier. A single input is received and internally converted into a balanced signal, driving both amplifier channels in a bridged configuration to produce 120W of true balanced power into 8Ω and 4Ω, stable into 2Ω. Maximum instantaneous power reaches up to 165W. Even when using the RCA input, the signal is internally converted to a balanced signal path to take full advantage of the fully differential amplification architecture. Overall performance in mono mode is elevated compared to stereo, with improved noise rejection and dynamic range.
Recommended: Dual Mono Configuration
For ultimate performance, pair two Crescendo CHORUS units, each operating in bridge mono mode. Each unit takes one channel, converts it to a balanced signal, and delivers 120W of true balanced output. With complete electrical separation between left and right channels, separate power supplies, and separate amplification stages, crosstalk is eliminated entirely. The result is a wider, more precise soundstage with superior imaging, a configuration that brings GaN amplifier performance into reference territory.
Balanced and Single-Ended Inputs.
CHORUS accepts both balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs. The balanced input is recommended for better THD and SNR performance, as well as longer cable runs and environments where noise rejection is critical. Both inputs are available simultaneously, with input selection accessible on the unit.
It is worth noting that in bridge mono mode, even the RCA input is internally converted to a balanced signal path, ensuring the fully differential amplification architecture is always utilised to its full potential.
Advanced Protection with Microcontroller Startup.
CHORUS features three layers of protection to safeguard both the amplifier and your loudspeakers. Upon startup, the built-in microcontroller runs through a full system check before switching CHORUS into operation mode, verifying that all circuits are operating within safe parameters before any audio signal is passed.
DC Offset Protection detects DC offset at the output and disconnects the speaker terminals to prevent driver damage.
Over-Current Protection monitors output current and limits drive to prevent damage during sustained high-level playback.
Over-Temperature Protection triggers automatic shutdown if internal temperatures exceed safe thresholds, protecting components and extending service life.
Designed for Always-On Operation.
CHORUS is engineered for continuous operation, delivering optimal performance and convenience without the need to power cycle between listening sessions. Standby power consumption is under 2W, and idle power sits below 20W, making always-on operation both practical and efficient.
The chassis itself serves as the heatsink. Thanks to the high efficiency of GaN technology, the chassis remains only lukewarm during normal operation, with no fans or active cooling required.
For proper power sequencing, power on your DAC or preamplifier first, followed by CHORUS. When powering down, switch off CHORUS first, then your source components.
The microSD card slot located at the bottom of the unit allows firmware updates for improved operational stability and future enhancements. CHORUS is highly versatile and can be paired with the vast majority of DACs and preamps on the market, and is not limited to the Crescendo VERSE.