SPL Phonos
SPL Phonos phono preamplifier for MM and MC cartridges, with RIAA equalisation curve and high gain, fitted with a switchable subsonic filter.
Description
The SPL Phonos is a phono preamplifier designed to accommodate turntables fitted with moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) cartridges. It applies the RIAA equalisation curve, the standard adopted by the record industry since 1954, to restore a linear frequency response signal from the grooves of a vinyl record.
The Phonos's RIAA filter was designed according to the work of Douglas Self, a recognised authority in audio electronics. This equalisation compensates for the processing applied during cutting: low frequencies are attenuated and high frequencies boosted at recording, then the reverse operation is carried out during playback, which reduces background noise, crackle and groove wear while preserving faithful reproduction.
The Phonos ranks among high-gain phono preamplifiers, offering up to 71.5 dB for MC cartridges and 50 dB for MM cartridges. Preamplification is switchable and offers three values for each cartridge type: a normal gain of +46 dB in MM and +67 dB in MC, a -10 dB position suited to consumer devices operating at -10 dBV, and a +4 dB position for an output level equivalent to that of modern digital-to-analogue converters at 0 dBfs = +15 dBu.
A switchable subsonic filter is also built in. It eliminates rumble, the low-frequency growl generated by the turntable's drive mechanism and amplified by the bass boost inherent to RIAA playback.
This preamplifier is aimed at vinyl enthusiasts with a turntable fitted with an MM or MC cartridge who wish to integrate it into a hi-fi chain or a system with standard line inputs, whether a consumer amplifier operating at -10 dBV or a setup calibrated to the level of modern digital sources.
What to check before buying used
The contacts of the MM/MC switching relays and gain selectors can oxidise over time, causing crackling or channel dropout that can be corrected by repeatedly switching them back and forth. Also check that the input and output RCA connectors are properly tightened, along with the earth connection, which are often stressed when connecting successively to different turntables. Unusual interference or hiss at high MC gain may also indicate fatigued solder joints on the RIAA equalisation circuit.
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