Thirty years ago few people predicted that, not only would we still be listening to records in the 21st Century, we would still be pressing them too. For many listeners, the vinyl record is more than just a viable source – it’s the pre-eminent source of recorded music.
That reflects both the inherent qualities and character of analog sound, but also the fact that record replay has significantly upped its game in the face of ever-increasing competition from high-res digital sources. These days, serious record collectors and listeners wanting the best possible sound will seek out rare original pressings, appreciate the virtues of mono (as opposed to many stereo) releases and purchase their discs, new and used, from all over the world.
Likewise, the once simple process of playing those discs can achieve levels of sophistication and record-by-record optimisation we never dreamed of, back when the vinyl LP was the only high-quality format.
Moving Coil Current Inputs
- Two inputs specifically designed to deliver the best possible performance from low-output, low-resistance MC cartridges
- Gain adjustable in six discrete steps (with actual gain dependent on cartridge internal resistance)
- Current-sensing delivers the best signal-to-noise ratio possible from low output MC cartridges and eliminates the need to set individual load impedance
- Both single-ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs provided
Moving Magnet / Moving Coil Voltage Input
- Input designed for MM cartridges, MC cartridges or step-up transformers
- Ultra low noise FET input stage
- Gain adjustable from 35dB to 70dB in 5dB steps
- Cartridge loading adjustable from 20 Ohms to 100k Ohms in over 500 steps
- Dedicated set up record and internal loading ‘wizard’ shows optimum gain and loading performance on main screen
- Both single-ended (RCA) and balanced (XLR) inputs provided
Optional EQ Curves
- Built-in RIAA and eRIAA EQ curves
- Optional add-on board provides EMI, Columbia, Decca and Teldec EQ curves for owners/collectors of older records or original pressings
Analog Signal Path
- All adjustable parameters and EQ curves selectable on unit or via CH-Control App
- Dual-mono circuitry with fully complementary output stage
- Ultra low noise, high bandwidth, high slew rate design
- Class A, discrete transistor-based circuit topology
- Selectable 10 Hz 3rd order high-pass subsonic filter
Power Supply
- Ultra low noise, high accuracy, discretely regulated, linear power supplies
- Shunt regulation throughout
Scalable And Upgradable
- Available in Dual Monaural (single chassis) or True Monaural (dual chassis with one channel per enclosure) form
- Can be powered by the X1 external PSU (Dual Monaural), a dual output X1 (True Monaural) or a pair of single X1s for the ultimate four-box solution
- Additional audio chassis or PSU units can be added at any time
Technical Specifications
MC current-sensing input impedance
< 100mΩ, virtual ground
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN)
< -135dBu without X1, <-138dBu with X1 / 1Ω termination, gain 70dB, 22kHz BW
MM/MC voltage input impedance
Variable from 100kΩ to 20Ω
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN)
< -130dBu without X1, <-135dBu with X1 / 1Ω termination, gain 70dB, 22kHz BW
Playback EQ curves accuracy
/- 0.1dB
High pass filter
3rd order (-18dB per octave), 10Hz
Max analog output level
8V RMS balanced
4V RMS single-ended
Frequency response
> 400kHz (RIAA equalisation filter disconnected)
Total Harmonic Distortion Noise
< 0.01%, 1kHz, output level 3V RMS, 22kHz BW
Dimensions/Weight
440 x 440 x 133mm (W x D x H) / 20kg
