Unison Research Simply Phono
Best tube phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts seeking warm, analog sound.
Experience exceptional audio with the Unison Research Simply Phono, an all-tube phono preamplifier delivering outstanding performance for its price. It operates in pure Class A with no global or local negative feedback, utilizing four ECC83/12AX7 tubes for rich, warm sound. The design features a high-precision passive RIAA equalization network and a low-impedance cathode follower output stage. Its smart, symmetrical board layout minimizes noise and crosstalk, ensuring a clean signal path. This phono stage supports both MM and medium to high-level MC cartridges, offering versatile compatibility for your vinyl collection.
$1999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
304
/ 475
#304 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-71%
Below average
Type
Stereo Phono Valve preamplifier
/ Stereo Phono Valve preamplifier
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking rich, warm, and natural analog musicality
- Design-conscious listeners curating a sophisticated, high-end audio aesthetic
- Vinyl collectors using diverse MM and high-output MC cartridges
Who should skip it
- Users preferring low-maintenance, cool-running solid-state equipment
- Owners of low-output MC cartridges needing higher gain stages
- Budget-focused buyers prioritizing technical specs over boutique craftsmanship
Performance breakdown
Sonic Warmth
Four ECC83 tubes deliver the lush, organic signature audiophiles crave.
RIAA Precision
Passive equalization ensures faithful reproduction of your favorite vinyl records.
Cartridge Versatility
Flexible impedance settings accommodate a wide range of MM and MC cartridges.
Signal Integrity
Symmetrical board layout effectively minimizes noise for a pristine signal path.
Build Quality
Compact, robust chassis design reflects high-end Italian craftsmanship and attention.
Output Drive
Low-impedance cathode follower stage maintains signal strength across long cable runs.
Key Specs
Type
Stereo Phono Valve preamplifier
Circuitry Type
Vacuum Tube
Gain
52 dB
RIAA Accuracy
+/- 0.2 dB (20 Hz / 20 KHz)
Output Impedance
800 ohm
Input Impedance
Variable (47 Kohm – 100 – 50 – 22 ohm / 100 pF)
Input Capacitance
100 pF
THD
0.4% at 1 volt output
Features
- Pure Class A operation with no feedback
- High-precision passive RIAA equalization
- Supports MM and MC cartridges
- Variable input impedance settings
- Improved sonic performance
- Low output impedance design
- Symmetrical board layout
- Utilizes four ECC83/12AX7 tubes
What customers say
Vinyl enthusiasts overwhelmingly praise the Unison Research Simply Phono for its exceptional sonic performance and musicality derived from tube amplification. Users consistently highlight the rich midrange, smooth treble, and deep bass, noting the expansive, three dimensional soundstage it creates. The Italian craftsmanship and elegant design contribute to a high perceived quality. Many feel this unit delivers outstanding value, offering performance often found in much pricier phono stages. While primarily optimized for MM cartridges, the core sentiment centers on its ability to provide sophisticated, pure analog enjoyment, making it a beloved component for serious listeners.
Know before you buy
Yes, it is designed to support both MM and medium to high-output MC cartridges. You can easily adjust the input impedance to match your specific cartridge requirements.
By operating in pure Class A without global or local negative feedback, the Simply Phono avoids the phase distortion often associated with feedback loops. This results in a more natural, open, and harmonically rich sound signature.
Passive RIAA equalization is highly regarded for its accuracy and sonic transparency. It ensures that the frequency response remains precise—within +/- 0.2 dB—without the phase shifts that can occur in active equalization circuits.
Yes, the unit features variable input impedance settings, allowing you to select between 47 Kohm, 100 ohm, 50 ohm, or 22 ohm. This flexibility ensures you can optimize the electrical loading for a wide range of cartridges.
Yes, using an external power supply keeps sensitive electrical components away from the high-voltage transformer. This design choice significantly reduces electromagnetic interference, leading to a lower noise floor and a cleaner signal path.
The Simply Phono uses four ECC83/12AX7 tubes, which are widely available and easy to source. Like all vacuum tube gear, you will eventually need to replace them as they age, but they are standard types that do not require complex calibration.
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$1999