model S508 "esprit"
MC Phono Amplifier

It captures minute electric power generated by the MC cartridge as current (= output voltage / internal resistance), amplifies and equalizes it, and sends it to the power amplifier as a current-mode signal. For that reason, it realized a very fresh, high-quality sound and dynamism, as well as a lively dynamic feeling like air. In addition to the current-mode output, you can connect directly with the conventional voltage-mode amplifier with this model.

Features

Minimal Size ― Easy to wiring from rear panel.

In size-held in one hand (B5 notebook size), you do not choose a place to put it. Since the weight is light, it does not get in the way routing of the wiring from the rear panel.


Operations on Front Panel ― Easy to operate.

Only the power switch and the gain changeover switch are on the front panel. It is designed to combine CR type network standardized with RIAA equalizing and reputed sound quality with NF type de-emphasis which makes it difficult to saturate in the high frequency range and can obtain dynamic range.

Available Gain Switch ― Support varieties of MC cartridge in the market.

There is no shunt resistor at the input of the first stage amplifier in order to directly take in the power generated by the cartridge by the current input without any extra direct. Therefore, the finished gain is determined by the internal resistance of the cartridge. For example, for cartridges with an internal resistance of 4 ohm, about 60 dB (@ 1 kHz) is obtained at low gain. For cartridges with an internal resistance of 40 ohm, switching to high gain yields about 60 dB (@ 1 kHz). In both cases, the maximum output is approximately 2.2 Vrms (voltage-mode).

Two Types of Signaling Mode - current-mode & voltage-mode.

In order to send the same power, "current-mode" where dropout does not fundamentally occur is dominant. By current amplifying the current output of the cartridge as it is with ultralow noise and sending the signal directly, it finished it into a sound quality with high purity and musical power. Once you listen to the sound quality of the current-mode signaling that has reached the area where you are awake, you can not forget it. Even in the case of the voltage-mode signaling, the feeding impedance is very low, and the amplifier is driven firmly.

Specifications

model S508u ― both current-mode and voltage-mode signaling available

  • Power Supply: Worldwide, depend on market (IEC 3 pin AC inlet), AC110~120V, AC220~240V (factory assembled)
  • Input Terminals: Unbalanced RCA pin jack, chassis ground terminal.
  • Input Impedance: 0Ω - total gain is determined by cartridge internal resistance.
  • Gain: 60..75dB（@1kHz) - adjustable by gain switch.
  • Type: MC cartridge, CR network RIAA equalizing, NF de-emphasis, dual stage current amplifier.
  • Line Output (voltage-mode): Unbalanced RCA pin jack, 2.2Vrms
  • Line Output (current-mode): Unbalanced RCA pin jack, 5.5mAp-p
  • DC Offset：under a few mV (DC servo)
  • Operations: Power switch, Gain switch (high/low)
  • Size W260×H46×D160mm - B5 size
  • Weight 1.46 kg (without power cable)
  • Materials: Stainless steel, hairline finished. Stainless top panel with clear acrylic.
  • Accessories: power cable for IEC 3 pin AC inlet, userʹs manual.

    • Top Panel

    Color variations of handmade Japanese paper

    From left to right: 1.white, 2.cream, 3.plum, 4.sky-blue, 5.purple, 6.olive, 7.beige. Please choose your favorite color for top panel when you purchase order of this product.

    Monotone Panel

    You can also choose gray-smoke monotone.

    Retail Price

    model S508u ― MC Phono Amplifier

    Ask our authorized distributors/dealers.