Unison Research uPhono+
Best hybrid preamp for vinyl enthusiasts seeking modern digital versatility.
Experience the rich warmth of vinyl with the Unison Research uPhono+. This versatile component masterfully combines a high-precision phono pre-amplifier with a powerful headphone amplifier, designed to reveal the true character of analog sound. It accommodates both MM and various MC cartridges, breathing new life into your record collection. Seamlessly transition to personal listening via the integrated headphone jack for an intimate music experience. The uPhono+ also features digital outputs and DAC functionality, serving as a comprehensive hub for both vinyl playback and modern digital sources, ensuring fidelity across your entire audio setup.
$1399.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
133
/ 475
#133 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-80%
Below average
Circuitry Type
Vacuum Tube
/ Vacuum Tube
Who it's for
- Vinyl enthusiasts planning future cartridge upgrades and diverse system setups
- Design-conscious listeners who value premium craftsmanship and Italian aesthetics
- Audiophiles seeking a warm, rich, and musical analog sound
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level high-fidelity audio solutions
- Tweakers demanding granular control over impedance and capacitance loading
- Users preferring low-maintenance gear without heat or replacement parts
Performance breakdown
Analog Warmth
Vacuum tube circuitry delivers that signature rich, organic vinyl character.
Cartridge Versatility
Flexible gain and impedance settings accommodate a wide range of cartridges.
Digital Integration
High-resolution USB and optical outputs bridge the gap to modern systems.
Headphone Performance
Powerful output stage provides an intimate, detailed personal listening experience.
RIAA Precision
Exceptional curve accuracy ensures faithful reproduction of your favorite records.
Build Quality
Compact, robust chassis design feels premium and built for longevity.
Key Specs
Circuitry Type
Vacuum Tube
Analog Inputs
MM (47k Ohms), MC (20 Ohms - 1k Ohms)
Analog Outputs
Fixed/Variable line output, 1/4" Headphone Jack
Digital Outputs
USB-B, Optical, Coaxial (96kHz max)
MM Gain (1kHz)
38dB
MC Gain (1kHz)
58dB / 69dB selectable
RIAA Curve Accuracy
±0.3dB (20Hz - 30kHz)
Headphone Output Power
2.18VRMS Max
Features
- Dual phono pre-amp and headphone amplifier
- Authentic analog warmth and detail
- Supports MM and multiple MC cartridges
- Integrated DAC up to 24-bit/96kHz
- Fixed and variable line outputs
- Enhances vinyl and personal listening
- Vacuum tube circuitry for classic sound
- 2-Year electronics warranty
What customers say
The Unison Research uPhono+ is highly regarded in the mid to high-end phono stage market for its exceptional sonic performance. Customers consistently describe the sound as musical, detailed, and dynamic, noting its ability to reveal subtle nuances in vinyl playback. A major strength is its versatility; the unit provides comprehensive and accessible adjustments for both MM and MC cartridges, allowing enthusiasts to fine tune their systems easily. Build quality reflects a premium, robust construction. While priced above entry level options, serious vinyl collectors feel the significant sonic improvements, flexibility, and superior build thoroughly justify the investment, establishing strong perceived value for maximizing analog enjoyment.
Know before you buy
Yes, the uPhono+ is designed to handle both. It features dedicated settings for MM cartridges and adjustable gain settings for MC cartridges, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of turntable setups.
The built-in DAC allows you to convert your analog vinyl signal into a digital format via USB, optical, or coaxial outputs. This is ideal if you want to archive your records to a computer or connect your turntable to a digital-only audio system.
The uPhono+ features a capable headphone amplifier with a maximum output of 2.18VRMS. While it performs excellently with most standard consumer headphones, it is best suited for efficient models rather than extremely demanding, high-impedance audiophile cans.
The vacuum tube circuitry is responsible for the signature 'analog warmth' associated with the uPhono+. It adds a layer of harmonic richness and natural detail to the sound that solid-state preamps often lack.
Yes, the unit includes variable line outputs, which allow you to control the volume directly from the preamp. This means you can connect it straight to a power amplifier or active speakers without needing a separate integrated amplifier.
Yes, the uPhono+ offers selectable MC gain settings of 58dB and 69dB. This flexibility allows you to fine-tune the output level to match the specific requirements of your moving coil cartridge for optimal signal strength.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.