Octave · Phono Stages
Phono Module
The Phono Module is a hybrid tube phono preamplifier that accepts interchangeable input and output modules, letting you configure it around a specific cartridge and amplifier.
fig. 01 · phono stages
Phono Module
current
8 photographs · 5 shown
From Octave
Solid-state circuitry handles the MC input stage while three tubes, an ECC88, an ECC81, and an ECC83, run the RIAA equalization, a combination chosen to pair low noise at the input with the tonal character of tubes at the output. RIAA tolerance holds to +/-0.2dB across 10Hz to 50kHz, and a subsonic filter cuts in at 15Hz.
Up to three input modules can run simultaneously: an unbalanced MM module switchable between 1k and 47k ohm impedance, an unbalanced MC module switchable between 50 and 1k ohm with two gain steps, and a balanced XLR MC module with matching impedance and gain options.
Three output modules cover different system needs. The standard module gives one fixed and one variable RCA output; the Direct Drive module buffers the variable RCA output to drive a power amplifier directly; and the balanced Direct Drive module does the same over XLR while also letting the output level work with a preamplifier's balanced line input. An external power supply and optional Black Box Preamp upgrade round out the design.
Specifications
| Basic model | Phono Module |
|---|---|
| Options | Input and output modules; Remote control when used as a preamplifier |
| Design | Silver or Black |
| Tube complement | 1 x ECC88, 1 x ECC81, 1 x ECC83 |
| Dimensions Preamplifier / Power Supply | 437 x 83 x 487 mm / 110 x 77 x 277 mm (W x H x D) |
| Weight Preamplifier / Power Supply | 7.0 kg / 3.0 kg |
| Input and Output modules selectable | Input modules IN1 - IN9, Output modules OUT1 - OUT3 |
| Special connector for Black Box Preamp | Special connection for the passive Power Supply enlargement Black Box Preamp |
| Double output | One fixed output (RCA), one variable output (RCA or XLR) |
| Tolerance RIAA equalization | +/- 0.2 dB / 10 Hz - 50 KHz |
| Crosstalk attenuation left to right / phono | > -60 dB / 1 KHz |
| Crosstalk attenuation left to right / line | > -80 dB / 1 KHz |
| Subsonic filter cut-off frequency | 15 Hz / -3 dB; -12 dB / Oktave |