Phonostages — Mola Mola Lupe

The Lupe is an archival-grade phono stage from Mola Mola, a Dutch manufacturer founded in 2012 in Groningen. What began as a simple RIAA add-on module for the brand's Makua preamplifier has grown into a very quiet and versatile phono stage, positioned firmly in the reference-grade category alongside Mola Mola's Tambaqui DAC and Kula integrated amplifier.

Key specs that matter

Three single-ended RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input are provided, with both single-ended and balanced outputs. Rather than the common arrangement where an MC head amp feeds into a shared MM stage, the Lupe uses two entirely separate, fully independent Class A discrete gain stages - one voltage-optimised JFET stage for moving-magnet cartridges, one current-optimised stage for moving-coil - each achieving an equally short signal path tailored specifically to its cartridge type. Input impedance covers 75 ohms plus 18, 30, 47 and 120k ohms for MM, and 60, 100, 150, 250, 400, 650 ohms plus 1k ohm for MC, with input capacitance adjustable from 0pF to 380pF across nine steps. Gain is variable in 5dB steps across a 40dB range (45-87dB total). Input noise is an exceptionally low 0.35nV/rtHz for MC and 0.9pA/rtHz for MM, with sensitivity variable from 30 microvolts to 5mV. THD and IMD are both officially rated as not measurable. RIAA conformance is within plus-or-minus 0.1dB, with EQ settings covering practically every known cutting curve including 78rpm. A subsonic filter cuts at -3dB at 20Hz. At 110 x 200 x 320mm, all settings are software-controllable via Mola Mola Remote Bluetooth app or stored directly under physical preset buttons - despite digital control, every actual signal path and switching function operates entirely in the analogue domain, with no DSP whatsoever.

Sound and use context

Expect a wholly neutral, grain-free presentation with an almost uncanny ability to get out of the way and let the performance through unedited - deeply saturated timbre and sound depth, a brilliantly three-dimensional image, and consistency across cartridges, records and long listening sessions.

Pairing

The Lupe can route any of its four inputs through the phono circuitry, accommodating multiple turntables or cartridges connected simultaneously, and pairs naturally with Mola Mola's own Makua preamplifier and Kula integrated amplifier for a coherently voiced system.

Alternatives

Mola Mola's broader electronics catalogue, including the Tambaqui DAC and Perca power amplifier, forms a natural partner for a system built around this phono stage, worth exploring for buyers wanting the brand's characteristic modern, noise-reduced engineering philosophy applied consistently across an entire signal chain.