LCR Phono

The LCR Phono presents the listener with fantastic, natural, vinyl sound reproduction.

A phono preamplifier has two primary tasks. First, and what makes it specific to vinyl playback, is to apply the proper RIAA equalization curve to the signal. The LCR Phono uses passive components: inductors (L), capacitors (C), and resistors (R) to apply the equalization, in between the active gain stages.  While this is a more complicated method, its unique design characteristics and performance make the effort worthwhile. Only the inductors in-line with the signal path; the capacitors and resistors are parallel. The audio signal thus runs through less components and maintains a higher level of purity. The inductors use Finemet cores, and each is hand-coated with Urushi lacquer to further enhance their performance. All other components chosen are of highest quality and each curated for its performance in the circuit.

Second, a phono preamplifier carefully amplifies the delicate audio signal produced by the cartridge to a more useable level by the rest of the audio system. The 7308 twin-triode vacuum tubes are used in the first stage, chosen for their extremely low noise and resistance to microphonics, and a 12AT7 provides additional gain in the second stage. A tube-rectified power supply in a separate enclosure provides the electrons, utilizing a CLCLC configuration with a Finemet choke in the final stage. Combined with DC heated filaments, and a high voltage shunt regulator for each channel, the LCR Phono is provided extremely clean, pure power for amplification.

46dB of gain makes the LCR Phono well-suited for MM cartridges, or MC cartridges when paired with a step-up transformer such as the Treehaus Audiolab MC SUT. To fine-tune for specific cartridges, the LCR Phono offers variable cartridge loading on two of the inputs. A further convenience feature is the mute/stereo/mono mix switch on the front.

The LCR Phono is available in both of our industrial design styles: Kinsuido is influenced by 1970’s Japanese Hi-Fi and MCM aesthetics, while the A/Machines visually pays respects to early Western Electric and Klangfilm equipment. Custom finishes are available by request.  

Cardas connectors are used for the RCA inputs and outputs. MIL-spec Amphenol connectors supply power to the LCR Phono via an umbilical cord. The Kinsuido design possesses hardwood veneer cases over Baltic Birch, with 5mm oxidized aluminum faceplate and patinaed brass knobs to complete the aesthetic. The A/Machines design uses vintage-looking large dials, Simpson gauges, black inset panels and hammertone cases.