Consonance Référence 50 MKII
Valve line-stage preamplifier, SRPP circuit with no global feedback and point-to-point wiring, for enthusiasts of refined analogue sound.
Description
The Référence 50 MKII is a line-stage preamplifier from Consonance, built around an improved SRPP circuit operating without global negative feedback. It handles signal amplification and switching ahead of a power amplifier stage, with a gain of 20 dB at 1 kHz and four RCA inputs for four separate sources, output via two RCA outputs.
The valve stage relies on two 12AU7 tubes paired with an EZ80, in an SRPP topology free of global feedback, favouring a natural circuit response across the whole bandwidth. Signal coupling uses AuriCap capacitors, while all internal connections are made using point-to-point wiring with high-purity copper wire, the printed circuit board serving only as a mechanical support for the tubes and components. The power supply relies on an EI-type power transformer and inductor made from special silicon steel, chosen for their high-frequency performance, complemented by a Solen MKP metallised polypropylene filter capacitor. The frequency response extends from 3 Hz to 150 kHz at -1 dB, with harmonic distortion of 0.05% at 2 V RMS output and a signal-to-noise ratio of 90 dB.
This preamplifier is aimed at valve electronics enthusiasts seeking a line stage with traditional wiring, intended to drive a separate power amplifier within a hi-fi system built around several analogue sources.
Technical specifications
| Control functions | Left/right volume, input selection, power on/off |
| Harmonic distortion | 0.05% (70 Hz-7 kHz 4:1, at 2 V RMS output) |
| Frequency response | 3 Hz-150 kHz (at -1 dB) |
| Input impedance | 100 K. ohms |
| Input interfaces | 4 groups (RCA) |
| Output interfaces | 2 groups (RCA) |
| Signal to noise | 90 dB |
| Gain at 1 kHz | 20 dB |
| Power consumption | 40 watts |
| Negative feedback | none |
| Vacuum tube | 12AU7 x 2, EZ80 x 1 |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 440 x 320 x 120 mm |
| Weight | 12 kg |
What to check before buying used
The two 12AU7 tubes and the EZ80 valve are the first elements to check: microphonics, hum or reduced gain often indicate worn tubes that will need replacing. As the printed circuit board serves only as a mechanical support, it is also worth inspecting the condition of the point-to-point wiring beneath the chassis, which is more prone to loose contacts than a conventional etched circuit. The AuriCap capacitors and the Solen MKP filter capacitor also warrant checking, as these components can drift over time and affect the stated frequency response.
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