Phonostages — Clearaudio BASIC V2

The BASIC V2 is an entry solid-state phono preamplifier built to add a turntable to a system whose amplifier has no phono input, from Clearaudio's own electronics range. Clearaudio is best known for turntables and tonearms, and this compact phono stage represents the brand's accessible entry into the complementary electronics category needed to complete a vinyl playback chain.

Position in line

It sits below the BALANCE V2 in Clearaudio's phono stage range, offering single-ended-only connectivity rather than the balanced option the step-up model adds. As the entry point in a two-tier phono stage range, the BASIC V2 likely trades the BALANCE V2's balanced XLR connectivity for a simpler, more affordable single-ended-only design while sharing similar core circuit performance.

Key specs that matter

Input impedance is switchable between 500 ohms for moving-coil and 47 kOhm for moving-magnet cartridges, covering both cartridge types from one unit. Output impedance is a low 10 ohms. Distortion is under 0.002%. At 118 x 145 x 42 mm and 1.2 kg it is a compact unit sized to sit near the turntable, small enough to tuck discreetly out of sight on a shelf beneath the deck itself.

Sound and use context

Expect a clean, low-distortion presentation typical of a well-executed solid-state phono stage at this size, with the switchable gain covering both common cartridge types without an external step-up transformer - a genuinely practical, no-fuss solution for a straightforward vinyl setup.

Pairing

The 500 ohm MC and 47 kOhm MM switching covers most cartridges directly; a very low output moving-coil cartridge may still benefit from a dedicated step-up transformer ahead of the MC input for optimal gain and noise performance.

Alternatives

The BALANCE V2 adds a balanced XLR input and output alongside the same MM/MC switching, for a system built around balanced connections throughout, worth the price premium if the rest of the system already favours balanced connectivity. A dedicated ground wire or terminal, common on many phono stages, should be checked for on this unit specifically, since proper grounding is essential for hum-free operation with most turntables. Buyers should also confirm the cartridge output level falls comfortably within this unit fixed gain range before assuming compatibility, since very low output moving-coil designs may need additional gain this basic model does not provide.