Today we are checking out the $2,599 USD Brise Audio Tsuranagi V2 portable amplifier from Japan.
Disclaimer: I received the Brise Audio Tsuranagi V2 as a review sample free of charge. As always, this review reflects my honest opinion.
About Brise Audio
Brise Audio, based in Gunma, Japan, is a high-end cable manufacturer with a strong reputation in the Japanese market. While less well-known internationally, the brand is gaining traction, particularly in the portable audio space where boutique cables are prized. I’ve reviewed several of their cables, including the award-winning YATONO Rh2+ in 2020 and the STR7-Ref in 2019, both of which received high praise in the audiophile community.
When Brise Audio started in 2015, its initial focus wasn’t on the portable market but rather on home audio solutions in Japan. After a couple of years, they decided to expand into portable audio. However, they leverage their expertise from home audio in developing their portable solutions, which is likely why their products stand out for their detailed engineering and performance.
Brise Audio’s CEO, Naoki Okada, whom I met at CanJam London 2019, is a pleasure to talk to and is genuinely passionate about showcasing how well his cables perform with high-quality IEMs. I believe he succeeded in that, and I look forward to seeing him at future shows.
For newcomers, Brise Audio’s extensive cable range might seem a bit overwhelming. Fortunately, they offer an informative guide on their website that explains the differences between their cable series and grades, making it easier to choose the right one for your needs.
About Tsuranagi V2
The Tsuranagi V2 is a top-of-the-line (TOTL) portable amplifier and the successor to the original Tsuranagi. Initially, the Tsuranagi was developed as a test platform for Brise Audio’s cables, earning high praise at various audio shows. Due to its success, Brise Audio decided to offer it to customers.
The second version builds on feedback from Brise Audio’s customers, refining the already impressive sound quality of the original. Key improvements include:
- 6dB reduced gain: From 10.5 dB to 4.5 dB, addressing background noise with sensitive IEMs.
- Volume curve improvement: The original had a steep volume increase, which is now more controlled for better use with IEMs.
- Laser engraving: Replacing sticker-type branding, the Tsuranagi V2 features laser-engraved logos and product markings for a more refined finish.
Here are the detailed technical features of the Brise Audio Tsuranagi V2 portable amplifier:
- High-quality electronic volume control IC MUSES72320: Ensures precision volume adjustment.
- Brise Audio cables for internal wiring: Optimized for maximum audio performance.
- Electromagnetic wave-absorbing shielding material & CNT (carbon nanotubes): Enhances signal integrity by reducing interference.
- Current Feedback Amplification (CFA): A true CFA design for improved performance.
- Ultra-wide amplifier bandwidth (2 Hz to 200 kHz): Guarantees a flat frequency response in the audible range (20 Hz to 20 kHz).
Additional features include:
- Balanced input/output for improved audio separation and lower noise.
- High input impedance & common mode noise rejection: Via a low-noise differential line receiver for cleaner audio.
- Unbalanced-balanced conversion through low-noise processing.
- Dual power supply with DC servo for stable power delivery.
- USB Type-C charging with approx. 8 hours of continuous playback.
If you already have the original Tsuranagi, Brise Audio also offers an upgrade plan. You can send your original model and they upgrade it to the V2 for a price of about 600-700 $.
Unboxing
The Brise Audio Tsuranagi V2 arrives in familiar packaging—a sleek black box with the gold Brise Audio logo, much like the brand’s previous products. Inside, the amplifier is nestled securely in soft foam. The packaging includes hand-written details about the model and a Brise Audio sticker.
You’ll also find a brochure highlighting Brise Audio’s IEM, headphone, and stereo cables, as well as the Headfonia awards from 2019 and 2020. A dedicated charger and cable are provided, with a specific note from Brise Audio to use only the included charger for powering the amplifier.
While the overall presentation is clean and professional, the packaging could be improved by adding a premium carrying case or rubber straps to prevent the amp from sliding during use. Given the Tsuranagi V2’s price and the potential for scratches on its chassis, a protective case would be a valuable addition.
Build Quality & Ergonomics
The Tsuranagi V2 exemplifies Brise Audio’s no-nonsense approach to design, with a professional and utilitarian look. While some might expect a more extravagant or futuristic design given the high price tag, Brise Audio prioritizes sound quality above all else, with aesthetics taking a back seat. Their focus remains firmly on delivering top-tier audio performance, rather than flashy or luxurious design elements, staying true to their philosophy of substance over style.
The original Tsuranagi had a distinctive character thanks to its gold/yellow-accented Brise Audio and “Tsuranagi” logos on top. However, the Tsuranagi V2 has transitioned to laser engraving, removing the colored branding but solving the issue of the paint chipping, which was a problem with the original model. This trade-off enhances durability, ensuring the logo remains intact over time.
In terms of user experience and ergonomics, everything is operated from the front panel, which makes things a bit crowded. It works well with DAPs that have the outputs on the bottom side, such as the RS8, but it’s not ideal in an opposite scenario. I don’t consider it a huge issue though. You become used to the layout in a short time.
Speaking of build quality, Brise Audio also offers a refreshment plan, so if your amplifier starts to show its age in cosmetic condition and battery life, you can send it back to Brise Audio to replace the whole chassis and the battery. A volume pot replacement is also available if you wish to do so. The price for the refreshment is around 240$, so it’s a nice offer unless the shipping cost is too high.
Page 2: Sound, Conclusion
