Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Dead quiet, minimizing noise in the audio circuitry
- Offers a Swiss Army knife of loading options with resistance loading ranging from 100 to 47K ohms, and capacitance loading ranging from 100 PF to 500 PF
- Provides flexibility to match well with any cartridge
- Provides excellent resolution and a high degree of dynamic contrast without harshness
- Built to a high mechanical standard with fully screened casework
Product Considerations
- An upgraded power cord is recommended
- The switches for loading are small and located on the bottom of the phono-stage chassis
- If the table/arm/cartridge are already aggressive or overly explicit, it will not step in and tone things down
- Reveals the nature of the equipment to which it's connected
- A tad of brightness, not much—just the tiniest amount, so one would define it as heightened or illuminated rather than absolutely neutral
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Parasound JC3, it gives a bit of warmth in the midrange that was not noticed with the Parasound JC3
- Compared to Parasound JC3, it is slightly heavier handed in bass extension
- Compared to Lehmannaudio Black Cube SE, it has better bass grip and a more expansive soundstage
- Compared to EAR Yoshino 324P, the EAR puts a warm, romantic feel on everything, and the Avid Hifi gives you what's on the recording, with an excellent sense of pace
- Compared to Avid Hifi Pulsare, the Avid Hifi Pulsus provides similar tonal balance with smaller scale music, but the Pulsare's superiority is evident on symphonic and heavy metal fare
Takeaway: The Avid Hifi Pulsus gives you lots of options for tailoring the sound, ensuring it will match with the other equipment you have. It will also help to pull great sound from your records.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Ingenium-turntable
- Positioning: The entry-level model aimed at budget-conscious users.
- Description: Offers a reliable belt drive mechanism and basic isolation features that help deliver clear sound in smaller rooms. In comparison to the other models, it provides essential performance without advanced engineering details for those who need simple functionality at a lower cost.
Diva-II-SP-turntable
- Positioning: A mid-range model that builds on the entry-level design with enhanced mechanical features.
- Description: Introduces an improved suspension system and refined tonearm design that help boost tracking precision and stability over the Ingenium. Compared to other products in the lineup, it offers a balanced step up in engineering for medium-sized setups.
Volvere-turntable
- Positioning: A mid-to-high tier option focused on greater mechanical stability and refined performance.
- Description: Uses an upgraded motor control and enhanced isolation measures that result in steadier operation and improved sound reproduction. In contrast to the Ingenium and Diva-II-SP models, its superior build quality and technical improvements suit buyers looking for a noticeable upgrade in performance and precision.
Acutus-reference
- Positioning: A high-end reference model designed for dedicated audiophile listening environments.
- Description: Features precision machining and an innovative motor system that markedly reduce vibration and enhance accurate tracking, setting it apart from the lower-tier products. Compared to the Ingenium, Diva-II-SP, and Volvere models, it offers advanced isolation and refined control.
Acutus-reference-mono
- Positioning: The flagship model with the highest level of engineering refinement in the lineup.
- Description: Features a bespoke mono-block design that significantly improves channel separation and minimizes interference, distinguishing it from all other models. Compared to the Acutus-reference and the rest of the range, it provides the most sophisticated circuitry and tonearm system.
See all the brand's products
Read the reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Pulsus
images
No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
Embodying the experience gained during the development of our flagship designs, technological advancements have been trickled down to our exceptional but more approachable phono stages. Designed from first principles, Pulsus is an un-balanced design with outstandingly low distortion and noise across the audio spectrum, retaining and exposing every intricate detail.
Manufacturer Specs
- Noise: < -81dB MM <-67dB MC
- Distortion: < 0.001%
- RIAA: 5Hz - 70kHz ±0.5dB
- Gain: 40dB -60dB -70dB
- Resistance: 100R - 300R - 500R - 1K - 5K - 10K - 47K
- Capacitance: 100pf - 200pf - 500pf
- Output Impedance: 20Ω
- Power Supply: Regulated with 35va transformer
- Voltage Input: 100-240vac 50/60Hz 10 watts max
- Dimensions: 120 x 220 x 70mm (W x D x H)
- Weight: Control Unit - 1.0kg (2.2lb) - PSU - 1.7kg (4lb)
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Average Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used Products
2
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
60
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
32
Founded
1995
Our take on the brand
AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
Brand Page
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Used
Avid Hifi
What if you spend a bit more?
Edge NQ
4999
4999
/
11
Reviews
Cambridge Audio
Impressively Revealing
With a revolutionary preamp circuit-board that reduces interference and an incredibly clean signal path, Edge NQ plays your favourite music with astonishing depth. Stream, plug-in and play to enjoy every note in perfect clarity.
Edge NQ Preamplifier With Network Player and Edge W
All the Sources
Edge NQ lets you enjoy music from any source. As well as digital coaxial, HDMI, USB and S/PDIF connections, there's also Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX HD, Internet Radio and UPnP Playback. Roon Ready certification enhances your browsing experience. Wherever songs are played from, Edge NQ stays true to the character of every instrument and uncovers a musicality you've never heard before.
Edge NQ Preamplifier with Network Player and Edge W
Astonishing Digital Detail
With a wealth of connections including digital coaxial, ARC (Audio Return Channel), USB and S/PDIF, our engineers have ensured that all of your digital content can be enjoyed, at up to 24-bit/384kHz and DSD 256. Edge NQ offers an incredibly revealing sound that has detailed tone, rhythmic drive and taut bass.
EDGE
Sonic Balance
Edge NQ was designed with a unique PCB. Our engineers replaced conventional capacitors with a DC coupled topology and also added a solid state volume control. The end result is a clean signal path that's perfectly balanced at any volume.
EDGE
Award-Winning Streaming Software
Edge NQ boasts the very latest version of our award-winning streaming module. Designed in-house, right here in the UK, it features a new, faster chipset and support for both 24bit/192kHz and DSD128 files. The addition of Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX HD and Internet radio means you can enjoy your music whatever the source. Roon Ready certification enhances your browsing experience.
Edge NQ Preamplifier and Network Player close-up of volume dial
Chromecast Built‑in
Thanks to Chromecast Built-in hundreds of music services, including Sirius XM & Soundcloud, can be enjoyed on the Edge NQ. Just tap the cast button in your favourite app to stream music from your smartphone, tablet or laptop in stunning high definition sound, up to 24bit/96kHz.
Edge NQ Preamplifier and Network Player close-up
Fixed Line-out Mode
If you wish to connect the Edge NQ to an integrated amplifier rather than a power amplifier, the streaming functionality can be used independently of the preamplifier. The preamplifier can be disabled via the dedicated Edge app for iOS and Android.
Edge NQ Preamplifier with Network Player and Edge W
Perfect Partners
Edge systems are designed to work in perfect synchronisation. Match the Edge NQ with our highest performing power amplifier, Edge W, to create a hi-fi system with a sound, and a look, unlike anything else.
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exemplary build quality, with a visually pleasing design
- The StreamMagic app is well-made and capable, offering a good user experience
- Delivers music in an extremely lifelike manner, limited more by the source than its own limitations
- Offers a strong musical sense of rhythm across all inputs, contributing to a well-rounded performance
- Presents a clear, bold, and spacious presentation
Product Considerations
- The volume dial may be slightly loose
- Lacks a phono analog input
- The acceptance angle of the remote sensor is limited
- The USB has trouble with large music collections
- The high frequencies can be bright with the system
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Musical Fidelity M8Xi: The M8Xi has more power output and exhibits more control over loudspeakers, but lacks the built-in streaming of the Edge NQ
- Vs Naim electronics: The Edge system is neutral, and not as warm as the Naim electronics
- Vs Gold Note DS-10: Provides a bigger soundstage and more detail
- Vs PS Audio DSD Jr: The Cambridge Audio Edge NQ and the PS Audio DSD Jr are sonically comparable, but the NQ delivers more precise lateral focus
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Edge NQ is a versatile, well-designed preamplifier and network streamer that delivers high-quality sound. It provides an enjoyable listening experience, making it a great choice for those seeking both performance and elegant aesthetics.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Visit our
Edge NQ
page
Product Page
SP25 Prisma
4985
4985
/
4
Reviews
Primare
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The SP25 Prisma includes 4K dynamic HDR switching and eARC
- Eleven channels of processing and preamplification
- Dual eight channel DAC chips allow for unique digital to analogue conversion, allocating four channels of conversion when delivering signal to the pair of front left and right analogue outputs
- Versatile, with single ended analog inputs, USB, coaxial and optical digital inputs, and HDMI inputs
- Prisma streamer, wired and wireless
Product Considerations
- Good surround sound gets expensive fast
- Operation and setup can be complex
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The SP25 Prisma lacks the power amplifiers of the SPA25 Prisma, making it only an AV processor or preamplifier
Takeaway: The SP25 Prisma is designed for cinephiles and audiophiles. It provides the best home cinema experience with carefully considered features and functionality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Visit our
SP25 Prisma
page
Product Page
Serene
2698
2698
/
4
Reviews
Holo Audio
Holo Audio has established itself as a leader in the modern mid-level R-2R DAC movement, focusing on creating DACs with a natural, rich sound that emphasizes musicality over pure detail. Like Denafrips, Holo Audio is known for precise engineering, low noise levels, and exceptional value, offering performance that rivals far more expensive competitors. With a similar approach and price range, Holo Audio is frequently mentioned alongside Denafrips as a top choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound without the high-end price tag.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Highly detailed, clear, and clean sound with musicality, but without sterility
- The KTE version includes a beautiful aluminum remote
- Truth, neutrality, and accuracy, making it fun to listen to music
- Enhanced spatial presentation, adding force and rhythmic nuance
- First class build quality
- It does not have a built-in DAC or phono preamp
Product Considerations
- The buttons on the remote are a bit loose
- It is not possible to directly select inputs, it is necessary to click through
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to ModWright LS-99, the Serene KTE is more accurate and neutral, while the ModWright LS-99 is juicier
- Compared to Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL, the Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL added more midrange warmth and flavor
Takeaway: The Serene is a preamplifier that offers a clean and neutral sound, and it is excellent for those who want to hear the sound of other components without coloration. It is built with high-quality components.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Holo Audio has established itself as a leader in the modern mid-level R-2R DAC movement, focusing on creating DACs with a natural, rich sound that emphasizes musicality over pure detail. Like Denafrips, Holo Audio is known for precise engineering, low noise levels, and exceptional value, offering performance that rivals far more expensive competitors. With a similar approach and price range, Holo Audio is frequently mentioned alongside Denafrips as a top choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound without the high-end price tag.
Visit our
Serene
page
Product Page
Alto MKII
4999
4999
/
4
Reviews
AGD
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced design provides less noise and coloration to the sound.
- Supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono cartridges with a high-performance phono stage.
- Passive ladder volume control with precision resistors provides superior channel separation, low distortion, and high signal integrity.
- Superior noise performance and extended bandwidth, with a very low THD+N and wide frequency response.
- Large, high-resolution display is visible from a distance
Product Considerations
- Limited features for its price, lacking an internal DAC, room correction, or bass management.
- Small, non-standard form factor might not match other hifi equipment aesthetically.
- Limited to one balanced input and one balanced output.
- Reviewers noted a chintzy plastic remote that needs to be synced.
- Sensitive to cable changes and may exhibit high-frequency noise if XLR cables are not connected
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Alto was equal in sonic performance to the Amped America AAP-1, but the AAP-1 has dead-neutral tonality.
- There is not a lot missing between the Alto and the Bricasti Design M20 preamplifier in terms of sound, but at a little more than double the price, the Bricasti Design M20 had better dynamics and ultra-fine resolution.
- Both the Alto and the Pass Labs XP-12 stereo preamp are very high-end stereo preamps that do just that—do what they say on the box.
- Trilogy's set emerged rounder, bloomier, more massive, and atmospheric against the quick snappy team AGD that prioritized dynamics, outlines, clarity, and had its spatial projections sensibly more oxygenated.
- The Alto is like the Anthem without the DAC and streamer.
Takeaway: The Alto preamplifier is well-engineered to provide clean, high-quality sound, and it's a good choice for audiophiles who prioritize core preamp functions. It offers great performance for vinyl and digital sources when additional features aren't needed.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Visit our
Alto MKII
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
V10
1650
/
Released
2021
Hegel
The Hegel V10 is a brand-new take on an old technology. With 30 years' experience designing state-of-the-art discrete transistor circuits, we have built a phono preamplifier like no other. It is neutral, dynamic, and exceptionally revealing. We have used all our knowledge in amplification and applied it to one goal - To reach down into the record and reveal every bit of information.
Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Ultra-low noise with remarkably quiet backgrounds and effortless transparency
- Delivers Al Harewood's delicate brush work with an outstanding balance of brush "edge" and "swish"
- Clear and distinct sound, with a soundstage that is tall, wide, and deep
- Natural and matter-of-fact nature, one that doesn't feel processed or constrained in any particular way
- The V10 is a highly musical phonostage that resolves fine details, honors tonal colors, and allows the dynamic life in music to breathe at levels that belie the unit's modest price
Product Considerations
- Adjustments to capacitance, gain, and impedance are accomplished by means of a bank of DIP switches on the rear panel, which can be a bit confusing
- The instruction manual states it's possible to set impedance "freely between 50 and 550 ohms" and add 6 addition dB of gain, but to do so contact your Hegel dealer for more information
- Not as versatile as the PS Audio Stellar
- The V10 does not try to mask physical imperfections on the record
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Simaudio MOON by Simaudio 610LP—the Hegel V10 performs so well in comparison to the much more expensive 610LP as to be encouraging
- Vs Aurorasound VIDA Prima—the Hegel V10 seemed to pull out more detail than the VIDA Prima
- Vs Aqvox Phono 2 Ci—V10 allows one to easily explore the musicians' context and intent better
- Vs Rega Aria 3—the V10 betters it by quite a way, showing how the Hegel has a more incisive and detailed nature
Takeaway: The Hegel V10 is a great sounding, well-made phono stage that produces the 3D, of both the music and the space behind it, while honoring the purity and simplicity of the recording. It has connectivity and configurability as well.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Visit
V10
Page
Product Page
R35
1679
/
Released
Primare
R35 is our most sophisticated and capable MM/MC phono preamplifier, providing the ideal interface between the low-level output of a moving magnet or moving coil phono cartridge and the line-level inputs of your hi-fi system, either RCA or XLR.
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Comprehensive spec sheet
- Versatile phono stage with balanced outputs offers greater levels of gain
- Depth, detail, and an analogue character
- Flexible and capable
- Extracts the very best from any cartridge
- The casework feels solid and beautifully finished
Product Considerations
- Adjusting capacitance and loading via hidden dip switches under two small covers for left and right channels is a little trickier than the previous model's dial adjusters
- DIP switches are fiddly to use
- Busiest and brightest recordings can appear just a little sanitised
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The R35 offers a thorough update of its feature set, making it—on paper at least—one of the most versatile phono stages on the market today
- The R35 ups the ante by some margin, despite looking deceptively identical to the retired R32 front on
- Compared to the Hegel V10, the R35 is more playful dynamically with fatter bass, there is more depth in the soundscape, and a slightly larger range of timbres
Takeaway: The R35 is a versatile phono stage that can extract the best from any cartridge and has a comprehensive spec sheet. It offers depth, detail, and an analogue character that underlines vinyl's enduring appeal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Visit
R35
Page
Product Page
M6x Vinyl
2399
/
Released
2021
Musical Fidelity
The M6x ViNYL is a very high performance, highly accurate phono MM/MC cartridge amplifier in a beautifully designed and executed casework. We set out to make a phono stage without any practical limits. It's designed in such a way to ensure you cannot overload the input stage or encounter any practical limitations in the output driving capacity during regular use, whether running single-ended or balanced.
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Crisp, clean, and spacious tone, which is fun to listen to, tonally neutral, and detailed
- Good and solid build quality
Product Considerations
- Substandard interface, with tiny buttons and labels, can be difficult to use
- In single-ended mode, the sound presentation can have slightly edgy mids
- Smaller interface font than the M6 makes the values slightly harder to read
- Size and weight might require sturdy shelf support
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- M6x has an appreciable reduction in its noise floor and improved dynamic range compared to M6 Vinyl
- M6x has a slightly well-lit upper midband and a drier and leaner bass compared to ModWright PH 9.0 tube phono stage
- M6x Vinyl is a clear step up, having a crisp, clean, and spacious tone compared to Rega Aria Mk3
Takeaway: The M6x is a versatile phono stage that offers balanced connections, multiple inputs and solid build quality. It is sonically neutral and lets records speak for themselves.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Visit
M6x Vinyl
Page
Product Page
EX-P7
2098
/
Released
2022
Kinki Studio
The EX Series has been fine-tuned to achieve a well-balanced sound quality with smooth extension at both the high and low ends of the frequency spectrum. The EX-P7 preamp features a true Class-A bias, as well as fully discrete input and output stages, which are the cornerstone of its design. This results in a rich, detailed, and high-resolution sound that is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles. Furthermore, the preamp boasts a silky-smooth volume control, thanks to its discrete R2R volume control. This type of volume control is renowned for its precise and accurate adjustments, which are made possible through the use of precision-matched resistors.
Kinki Studio is known for delivering high-end sound quality at relatively affordable prices, particularly through their EX-M1+ integrated amplifier that's often compared favorably to much more expensive models. The brand appeals to audio purists through their focus on pure amplification without additional features, using design elements like dual mono power supplies, relay-based volume control, and capacitor-free signal paths to achieve exceptional performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a 'truthful' signal transmission with attributes of speed, low noise, vanishing grain, and purity—delivering a solid sonic performance
- Excellent build quality, with robust aluminum chassis and quality parts
- The knobs offer a silky-smooth feel, and the remote is well-designed and easy to use
- Offers a detailed sound
Product Considerations
- The XLR inputs and outputs are more for interface convenience, as the internal circuitry is single-ended
- Some reviewers note a lack of density in the lower midrange compared to other preamps
- The EX-P7 can sound too analytical if paired with already analytical components
- May not match high-end SET amplifiers in accurately conveying timbre and texture of vocals
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Denafrips Athena preamp, the EX-P7 is faster, more linear and agile, but lacks some density in the lower midrange
- Vs Kinki Studio EX-M1 Integrated Amplifier, the EX-P7 (paired with EX-B7 monoblocks) sounds beefier, more extended in the bass, and rounder, while the EX-M1 is leaner and feistier
- Vs Audia Flight FLS1 preamplifier, EX-B7 monoblocks combined with the FLS1 gained resolution, clarity and transparency
Takeaway: The Kinki Studio EX-P7 preamp is well-built and offers a technically correct sound, making it a great option for those seeking a detailed and revealing listening experience when paired with the right components. It is designed with quality components, inside and out, and the overall product exudes quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Kinki Studio is known for delivering high-end sound quality at relatively affordable prices, particularly through their EX-M1+ integrated amplifier that's often compared favorably to much more expensive models. The brand appeals to audio purists through their focus on pure amplification without additional features, using design elements like dual mono power supplies, relay-based volume control, and capacitor-free signal paths to achieve exceptional performance.
Visit
EX-P7
Page
Product Page
Primare SC15 Prisma MK2
2099
/
Released
2024
System Audio
With SC15 Prisma MK2, Primare has created the perfect partner for our Silverback wireless speakers. The incredible flexibility, build quality and powerful performance set an inspiringly high standard for a modern music system. The SC15 MK2 is the brain of the system, connecting all your audio sources, whether wireless or wired.
System Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that makes active speakers with built-in amplification, using WiSA wireless technology and low-mass drivers for fast, delicate sound that's often compared to planar speakers. Their Silverback series includes compact, wall-mountable models for spaces where traditional speakers are impractical, while their Signature series features custom-developed drive units that deliver deep, defined bass.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent streaming capabilities with support for AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, and Bluetooth
- Versatile functionality as a streamer, DAC, and preamplifier
- The Prisma app is easy to use and allows for customization of settings and access to streaming services
- Good sound quality with a fresh, energetic, dynamic, and well-timed presentation using either digital or analogue sources
- Offers multi-room functionality, digital EQ, and room correction
Product Considerations
- The built-in DAC may not be as good as separate—higher-end DACs
- Sound quality using Chromecast and AirPlay may not be as good as using a direct USB connection
- The USB drive playback interface in the Prisma app may have issues with track ordering
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Primare SC15 Prisma Mk2 has more inputs, better build quality, and Chromecast than the Bluesound Node 2i, while the Node 2i is Roon Ready and has more polished software (BluOS)
Takeaway: The Primare SC15 Prisma Mk2 is a well-rounded device that combines streaming, DAC, and preamp functionalities into a single, stylish unit that provides a wide range of inputs and a good overall sound experience. It's a great option for those looking to simplify their setup without sacrificing features or sound quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
System Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that makes active speakers with built-in amplification, using WiSA wireless technology and low-mass drivers for fast, delicate sound that's often compared to planar speakers. Their Silverback series includes compact, wall-mountable models for spaces where traditional speakers are impractical, while their Signature series features custom-developed drive units that deliver deep, defined bass.
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Primare SC15 Prisma MK2
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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- Dead quiet, minimizing noise in the audio circuitry
- Offers a Swiss Army knife of loading options with resistance loading ranging from 100 to 47K ohms, and capacitance loading ranging from 100 PF to 500 PF
- Provides flexibility to match well with any cartridge
- Provides excellent resolution and a high degree of dynamic contrast without harshness
- Built to a high mechanical standard with fully screened casework
Product Considerations
- An upgraded power cord is recommended
- The switches for loading are small and located on the bottom of the phono-stage chassis
- If the table/arm/cartridge are already aggressive or overly explicit, it will not step in and tone things down
- Reveals the nature of the equipment to which it's connected
- A tad of brightness, not much—just the tiniest amount, so one would define it as heightened or illuminated rather than absolutely neutral
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Parasound JC3, it gives a bit of warmth in the midrange that was not noticed with the Parasound JC3
- Compared to Parasound JC3, it is slightly heavier handed in bass extension
- Compared to Lehmannaudio Black Cube SE, it has better bass grip and a more expansive soundstage
- Compared to EAR Yoshino 324P, the EAR puts a warm, romantic feel on everything, and the Avid Hifi gives you what's on the recording, with an excellent sense of pace
- Compared to Avid Hifi Pulsare, the Avid Hifi Pulsus provides similar tonal balance with smaller scale music, but the Pulsare's superiority is evident on symphonic and heavy metal fare
Takeaway: The Avid Hifi Pulsus gives you lots of options for tailoring the sound, ensuring it will match with the other equipment you have. It will also help to pull great sound from your records.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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