Phonostages — Remton audio VLCR MK2

The VLCR MK2 is the extended version of Remton Audio's VLCR tube phono stage, from the Czech company established in 2008 that concentrates on phono preamplifiers. It keeps the passive LCR equalisation and feedback-free tube circuit of the standard VLCR, but adds a second input and switchable gain for moving-coil cartridges, so owners of low-output MC cartridges do not need to buy a separate step-up device.

Key specs that matter

The VLCR MK2 has two single-ended RCA inputs. Gain is 42dB for moving-magnet cartridges, 62dB for high-output moving-coil and 68dB for low-output moving-coil. Input impedance adjusts over a wide range from 36 ohms to 100 kilohms, covering low-impedance MC loading as well as MM values. Output impedance is 250 ohms. The chassis measures 386 x 295 x 85mm and weighs about 8kg.

Engineering and use context

Remton's own view is that every low-output MC cartridge has an ideal step-up transformer, which is why its basic models leave MC amplification to an external unit. The MK2 versions exist for owners who prefer the convenience of built-in MC gain and would rather avoid an extra box and an additional pair of expensive interconnects. On the earlier LCR MK2, Remton used Sowter transformers for this MC step-up, which raise the cartridge's tiny voltage passively before the tube stages, contributing no active noise of their own. The two MC gain settings cover the typical spread of moving-coil outputs, and the low loading values suit many MC cartridges. The core of the design is unchanged from the VLCR - equalisation is done by a passive network of inductors, capacitors and resistors placed between the tube stages rather than by a feedback loop, and the tubes run without negative feedback. Using inductors in the equalisation avoids distortion linked to feedback-based RIAA circuits, although precision coils add significant cost. Two inputs allow a second turntable or tonearm, for example one fitted with an MM cartridge and one with an MC, to be connected permanently. All of this fits in the same chassis size and weight as the single-input VLCR.

Pairing

The VLCR MK2 accepts virtually any cartridge type - MM, moving-iron, high-output MC and low-output MC - without external step-ups. It connects to any line input, and the two inputs suit systems with two tonearms.

Alternatives

Remton Audio's own Balanced VLCR uses the same LCR equalisation in a fully balanced circuit with two balanced inputs.