The 840E is a high-end pre-amplifier which uses Cambridge Audio's new proprietary TerrapinTM modules for unprecedented audio fidelity forming the perfect partner for the accompanying 840W power amplifier. A customisable front panel display means tone controls can be selected and stored by nameable input. Volume, input and tone are also all controlled by highly sophisticated relay driven circuits. Rather than use common op-amps for the critical low level gain stages of the 840E (and 840W) Cambridge Audio instead decided to design its own audiophile amplifier modules. Nicknamed the Terrapins (because of their 10 pins) they add yet another dimension to Cambridge Audio's commitment to audio excellence. A sophisticated resistor ladder and relay based attenuator for volume (1dB steps) and balance controls allows remarkably accurate volume control with channel balance. The 840E features an extremely attractive and user friendly front panel display which is customisable to show which input is selected. Completing the rear panel is an RS232 control port, and multi-room outputs to connect the 840E to custom installations. As with all Azur products, the foundation of the 840E's excellence is a bespoke chassis. This comprises an incredibly thick 7mm front panel and extruded side panels, both fashioned from aluminium, which combine with a 2mm formed steel base plate and specially designed vibration absorbing feet. The 840E comes complete with the latest elegant, slim-line navigator style Azur remote handset offering full control of Azur CD players, Incognito keypads and discrete commands for custom install use. As an additional facet, all Cambridge Audio remotes feature iPodTM Command - which means that basic iPod controls such as volume and track select can be controlled from the comfort of the user's sofa. This boon requires the use of an Apple or other universal dock.