Audio T Verdict
The Cyrus Classic PSX-R2 is a long-established upgrade for compatible Cyrus equipment, providing a separate, highly regulated power supply for selected sections of the connected component.
Its 300VA toroidal transformer, substantial reservoir capacity and two-stage regulation are designed to reduce power-supply noise and lessen the electrical demands placed on the host product's internal supply.
The improvement will depend on the partnered component and the wider system, but the PSX-R2 remains one of the simplest ways to develop a compatible Classic or earlier-generation Cyrus system without replacing the main component.
Cyrus Classic PSX-R2 External Power Supply
The Cyrus Classic PSX-R2 is an intelligent external DC power supply designed for compatible Cyrus components fitted with a five-pin socket marked PSX-R.
It works alongside the internal power supply of the partnered component, providing separate regulated power to selected circuits while the host product continues to power its remaining sections.
The PSX-R2 automatically adjusts its output to match the connected Cyrus product, so no everyday user configuration is required.
Check Compatibility Before Ordering
The PSX-R2 is compatible only with Cyrus products equipped with the five-pin PSX-R connection.
Both the PSX-R2 and the partnered Cyrus component must remain connected to mains power. The PSX-R2 does not replace the host product's mains connection.
Why Add an External Power Supply?
Audio circuits depend on a stable supply of power. Digital processing, control systems, motors and amplifier stages can also place rapidly changing demands on the power supply inside a Hi-Fi component.
Adding a PSX-R2 allows selected sensitive circuits to receive power from a separate regulated source. This reduces the work required from the host product's internal supply and provides greater isolation between different circuit sections.
Depending on the connected product, the external supply may power analogue preamplifier stages, post-DAC circuitry, voltage-amplifier stages or other areas selected by Cyrus during the component's design.
Intelligent Automatic Configuration
The PSX-R2 is designed to identify the requirements of the connected Cyrus component automatically.
Once both products have been switched off, the captive five-pin cable connects to the socket marked PSX-R on the rear of the host. When the system is powered again, the two products configure themselves for the correct operating voltage.
Compatible products normally require no internal modification or manual voltage setting.
300VA Toroidal Transformer
A 300VA toroidal transformer forms the foundation of the PSX-R2's power supply.
Toroidal transformers combine substantial power capacity with a relatively compact shape and are commonly used in specialist Hi-Fi equipment where low mechanical noise and controlled magnetic radiation are important.
The available capacity allows the PSX-R2 to supply different compatible Cyrus products while automatically adapting its regulated DC output to the host.
30,000 Microfarad Reservoir Capacity
The transformer is partnered by 30,000 microfarads of slit-foil reservoir capacitance.
These capacitors store electrical energy after the incoming AC supply has been converted to DC, helping the power supply respond consistently when the connected circuitry places changing demands upon it.
Cyrus specifies low equivalent series resistance and wide bandwidth before the supply reaches the following linear regulation stage.
Two-Stage Regulation
Two levels of regulation are used to isolate the DC output from mains-borne disturbance and voltage ripple produced as the reservoir capacitors recharge.
Regulation also helps the supply maintain a stable output as the connected circuitry's power requirements change.
The purpose is not simply to provide more electricity, but to deliver the selected circuits with a smooth and consistent power source.
Different Outputs for Different Cyrus Products
Compatible Cyrus products do not all require the same voltage or use the external supply in the same way.
The PSX-R2 can provide several regulated output ranges, including higher-voltage supplies for compatible integrated and power amplifiers and lower-voltage operation for source components and preamplifier circuitry.
The correct output is selected automatically when the host component is detected.
Amplifier Applications
- Can power selected preamplifier or voltage-amplifier stages
- Reduces demand on the amplifier's internal supply
- Compatible only where a PSX-R socket is fitted
- The exact powered section depends on the host product
Source Applications
- Can supply sensitive analogue output circuitry
- Separates selected audio stages from digital or motor demands
- Suitable for compatible Cyrus streamers and CD players
- Automatic detection requires no user voltage setting
Compatibility with Classic Series Products
Current Classic Series products with a PSX-R upgrade connection include selected amplifiers, power amplifiers and music sources.
For example, the
Cyrus Classic STREAM
routes PSX-R2 power to its post-DAC analogue stages, while the
Cyrus Classic AMP
uses it to supply selected analogue preamplifier and DAC output circuitry.
The
Cyrus Classic POWER
also includes a PSX-R2 upgrade port for its voltage-amplifier stage.
Compatibility with Older Cyrus Equipment
The PSX-R2 can also be used with many earlier Cyrus products carrying the appropriate five-pin PSX-R socket.
This includes selected CD players, streamers, integrated amplifiers, preamplifiers, power amplifiers and phono stages.
Some early Cyrus III, Cyrus IIIi, Cyrus 7 and Cyrus Power units require an authorised internal conversion before a PSX-R2 can be connected. Audio T can arrange a compatibility check using the exact product model and serial number.
Not Compatible with Every Cyrus Range
A similar case size does not guarantee compatibility.
The Cyrus 40 Series uses the dedicated 40 PSU, while compatible XR components use the more advanced PSU-XR connection and control system.
The PSX-R2 should never be forced into another socket or connected using an unofficial adaptor.
One PSX-R2 Per Host Component
Each PSX-R2 has one permanently attached output cable and powers one compatible Cyrus product.
A system containing several compatible components may therefore use more than one external supply, with each PSX-R2 connected to its own host product.
The best location for an upgrade should be established by comparing the relevant components within the complete system.
Simple Installation
Switch off and disconnect both Cyrus products from the mains before fitting the five-pin umbilical cable.
Insert the connector securely into the socket marked PSX-R until it latches into place. Both units can then be reconnected to mains power and switched on.
During normal use, the standby state of the PSX-R2 is controlled by the connected Cyrus component and the front-panel indicators operate together.
Installation and Ventilation
Position the PSX-R2 on a firm, level Hi-Fi shelf with sufficient open space around the case for ventilation.
Do not place it beneath another component or on a surface that blocks its ventilation. The mains plug should remain accessible so that the unit can be disconnected when required.
The substantial transformer also makes the PSX-R2 heavier than its compact dimensions suggest, so the equipment rack should provide secure support.
PSX-R2, 40 PSU or PSU-XR?
These external supplies share the same broad purpose but are designed for different generations of Cyrus equipment.
- PSX-R2: for compatible Classic and earlier Cyrus products with a five-pin PSX-R socket.
- 40 PSU: for compatible Cyrus 40 Series products.
- PSU-XR: for compatible XR Series components using the newer multi-supply connection.
They are not interchangeable, so the host product should always be identified before an external supply is ordered.
Key Features
- Intelligent external regulated DC power supply
- Compatible with Cyrus products fitted with a five-pin PSX-R socket
- Automatic output configuration for the connected product
- No modification required for most compatible models
- 300VA toroidal transformer
- 30,000 microfarads of slit-foil reservoir capacitance
- Low-ESR wide-bandwidth reservoir design
- Two-stage linear regulation
- Multiple regulated output-voltage ranges
- Electronic protection circuitry
- Automatic standby control from the host component
- Permanently attached five-pin umbilical cable
- Compact die-cast Cyrus chassis
- Power cable and ferrite filter supplied
- Two-year UK manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the PSX-R2 work with every Cyrus product?
No. The host product must have a compatible five-pin socket marked PSX-R.
Does the connected Cyrus product still need mains power?
Yes. Both the PSX-R2 and the partnered component must remain connected to mains power.
Does it require manual voltage adjustment?
No. Compatible products automatically communicate their requirements and the PSX-R2 adjusts its regulated output accordingly.
Is an internal modification required?
Most compatible products require no modification. Some early Cyrus III, Cyrus IIIi, Cyrus 7 and Cyrus Power units require dealer conversion.
Can one PSX-R2 power two Cyrus components?
No. Each PSX-R2 has one output cable and powers one compatible host component.
Can I use it with Cyrus 40 Series products?
No. Compatible 40 Series products use the dedicated Cyrus 40 PSU.
Can I use it with an XR Series component?
XR products designed for an external supply use the Cyrus PSU-XR rather than the PSX-R2.
Does the PSX-R2 increase amplifier wattage?
Not necessarily. Its function depends on the host product and may involve powering preamplifier, DAC, voltage-amplifier or other selected circuitry rather than increasing the quoted loudspeaker output.
How is standby controlled?
Once correctly connected, standby operation is controlled by the partnered Cyrus product and the two front-panel indicators operate together.
Can Audio T confirm compatibility?
Yes. Provide the exact Cyrus model and, for older equipment, its serial number so compatibility and any required modification can be checked.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced Cyrus system and upgrade specialists
- Compatibility checks using the exact product model
- Serial-number checks for older Cyrus equipment
- Help identifying the most worthwhile component to upgrade
- In-store demonstrations through participating branches
- Installation and connection guidance
- Support arranging authorised Cyrus modifications
- Advice comparing the PSX-R2, 40 PSU and PSU-XR
- Ongoing Cyrus system support
Contact your local Audio T store
to confirm PSX-R2 compatibility and arrange a demonstration with your Cyrus component.