Musical Fidelity M8S PRE
High-end stereo preamplifier from Musical Fidelity, fitted with an MM/MC phono stage and low-impedance balanced outputs capable of driving any power amplifier.
Description
The M8s Pre is a high-end stereo preamplifier designed by Musical Fidelity to serve as the heart of a demanding hi-fi system. It centralises source selection and volume control ahead of the power amplifier stage, with deliberately extensive connectivity to suit a wide range of configurations, including those incorporating a home cinema system.
The unit features a low-noise MM/MC phono stage, allowing a turntable to be connected directly without the need for a separate phono preamplifier. It offers two balanced XLR inputs (one with a home cinema bypass option), five RCA/phono inputs, as well as a full recording loop. On the output side, there is a preamplified RCA output, a preamplified balanced XLR output, a fixed RCA output and a trigger out for remote control of other units.
These figures reflect a high level of sonic neutrality: the very low harmonic distortion and high signal-to-noise ratio limit coloration and background noise, while the extended frequency response comfortably covers the audible spectrum with a good margin on either side. The very low-impedance, high-current outputs allow virtually any power amplifier to be driven, regardless of cable length, in both balanced and unbalanced connection.
This preamplifier is aimed at hi-fi enthusiasts with an advanced system, comprising several sources including a turntable, who want a central unit capable of driving a remote power amplifier without any loss of quality. It is particularly suited to those seeking a neutral component designed to work with separate power amplifiers rather than an integrated amplifier.
Technical specifications
| Harmonic distortion + noise (unbalanced output) | <0.005% |
| Harmonic distortion + noise (balanced XLR output) | <0.004% |
| Signal to noise ratio | >118dB A-weighted |
| Frequency response | +0, -1dB, 5Hz to 100kHz |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 440 x 162 x 400 mm |
| Weight (unboxed / boxed) | 17 kg / 23 kg |
| Connectivity | 2x balanced XLR inputs (1 with home cinema bypass), 5x RCA/phono inputs (1 with home cinema bypass), 1x RCA pre out, 1x balanced XLR pre out, 1x fixed RCA out, trigger out |
What to check before buying used
The MM/MC phono stage, more complex than a simple line stage, deserves a listening test on both inputs to rule out any abnormal hiss or hum. The numerous input-switching relays and the motorised potentiometer are the most likely wear points on a heavily used unit: check for crackling when changing source or adjusting volume. It is also advisable to check both the XLR and RCA outputs, as some units may only have been used occasionally on one of the two connections.
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