Posts with tag "phono stage"

British company Vertere Acoustics has introduced the Phono-1 LX, a new version of its compact phono stage for MM and MC cartridges. The model continues the development of the Phono-1 line, which has been gradually refined over the years without any radical change to its external concept. As before, the device has a fairly understated appearance, while the main changes are hidden inside the chassis.

Boulder has introduced two new components in its 800 Series. The line-up now includes the Boulder 808 MM/MC phono stage and the Boulder 851 monaural power amplifier. Both products continue the concept of the series: to offer a serious level of High End performance in relatively compact enclosures. The new models are aimed at advanced stereo systems where sound quality and reliability matter, but so does more practical placement of equipment in an audio rack.

Slovak company Canor Audio presented the new Asterion V3 tube phono stage at High End Vienna 2026. The model has joined the Performance Line series and is set to replace the Canor PH 2.10 phono stage in the manufacturer’s catalogue. The device is designed for use with the two main types of phono cartridges – MM and MC – and is aimed at owners of serious analogue systems.

Meanwhile, the functions of a phono preamp (amplifying the signal from the cartridge, restoring the frequency response through equalization) are performed with an extremely low-level signal - highly sensitive to interference and crosstalk. Even minimal correction errors are subsequently multiplied at a much higher signal level in the amplifier circuit. In this article, we've compiled seven of the most impressive phono preamplifiers, sorted in ascending order of price. Looking to upgrade your entry-level hi-fi system? This article is for you. Thinking about upgrading your high-end vinyl audio system? This ranking will point you in the right direction.

AVID Hifi has introduced the AVID Velsonic, a new two-box phono stage for MM and MC cartridges, marking the brand’s first completely new development in this segment since 2012. The unit is manufactured at AVID Hifi’s facility in Cambridgeshire and replaces the Pulsare II and Pellere models, while also taking its place as the new flagship in the company’s analogue lineup.

The Backes&Müller ICE 525 preamplifier has received a built-in phono stage based on modern digital technologies. According to the developers, this approach makes it possible to achieve the highest level of accuracy even with non-standard cartridges. The company claims that the new model is capable of delivering a signal-to-noise ratio unattainable for traditional analogue phono stages. In addition, the manufacturer places special emphasis on the convenience of setup and day-to-day operation.

American company Audio Research has introduced the Audio Research LS-2 preamplifier. Its fully tube-based design, operating in pure Class A, eliminates semiconductors from the signal path and is aimed at maximum sonic authenticity. At the same time, the classic circuit concept is complemented by modern features such as a touchscreen display and optional modular expansion.

Acoustic Signature has introduced the Tango Apex NEO phono stage, designed for use with top-class vinyl record players and now heading the company’s range of phono stages. The new model is aimed at High End audio systems and is built with a fully balanced circuit topology featuring a “dual mono” architecture, where the left and right channels have separate amplification stages and independent power supplies.

British audio manufacturer Rega Research has introduced the new Rega AOS MC phono stage, specifically designed for moving coil cartridges (MC – Moving Coil). According to the developers, the new model is based on the flagship Aura.

The Italian company Gold Note has introduced the new Gold Note PH-5.2 phono stage, capable of working with both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. The new model is an evolution of the previous PH-5 and embodies the concept that Gold Note has promoted for many years in the world of analog audio: high fidelity is not a matter of taste or sonic character, but a responsibility toward the original recording.

The MoFi Electronics division of the American company Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab has introduced a more affordable version of its flagship MasterPhono phono stage. The new model is called the MoFi UltraPhono Pro and features a single input. This version also offers fewer additional functions and does without the VU meters that give the flagship a touch of vintage character.