Audio Research
Audio Research PH9 Phono Preamp
Best tube phono preamp for discerning vinyl enthusiasts seeking sonic transparency.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Audio Research PH9 Phono Preamplifier. Part of the esteemed Foundation Series, this preamp delivers transparent sound through its three 6H30 vacuum tubes. It offers five selectable impedance settings, easily adjusted on the fly with the included remote, ensuring optimal cartridge matching. The tube-based power supply and 58 dB gain support both MM and MC cartridges, providing a linear frequency response and exceptionally low noise floor. This preamp embodies Audio Research's enduring commitment to High Definition sound.
$11000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
86
/ 473
#86 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+60%
Above average
Type
Reference phono preamplifier
/ Reference phono preamplifier
Who it's for
- Serious listeners building a long-term, high-end reference audio system
- Audiophiles seeking rich, natural, and highly detailed analog sound
- Vinyl collectors using diverse moving magnet or moving coil cartridges
Who should skip it
- Owners with limited rack space or poorly ventilated listening rooms
- Casual listeners working within a modest or entry-level budget
- Listeners wanting instant, low-maintenance, and set-and-forget audio performance
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
The 6H30 tube architecture delivers an exceptionally clear and uncolored signal.
Cartridge Versatility
Five selectable impedance settings ensure perfect matching for diverse cartridge types.
Operational Convenience
Remote-controlled impedance adjustments make fine-tuning your sound effortless from the couch.
Signal Integrity
Tube-based power regulation maintains a remarkably low noise floor during playback.
Maintenance Awareness
Integrated tube hour monitoring helps you track lifespan for consistent performance.
Build Precision
Reference-grade construction standards reflect the prestige of the Foundation Series.
Key Specs
Type
Reference phono preamplifier
Circuitry Type
Hybrid
Tube Complement
(3) 6H30P dual triodes, (1) 6550WE, (1) 6H30P in power supply
Gain
58 dB
Cartridge Type Support
Moving Magnet (MM), Moving Coil (MC)
Load Impedance
Selectable (5 positions: 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 47,000 ohms)
Input Impedance
Selectable loads: 47k, 1000, 500, 200, 100 ohms
Frequency Response
10-60,000 Hz (+/-0.2 dB from 20-20,000 Hz)
Features
- Transparent preamplification with three 6H30 tubes.
- Five selectable impedance settings for cartridge loading.
- On-the-fly impedance adjustment via remote control.
- Tube hour monitoring and auto-shutdown features.
- Tube-based power supply regulation.
- High 58 dB gain for MM/MC cartridges.
- Linear frequency response and low distortion.
- Reference quality from the Foundation Series.
What customers say
The Audio Research PH9 Phono Preamp is highly praised for its musical presentation, delivering the signature rich and dimensional sound that breathes life into vinyl. Owners consistently highlight the exceptional sound staging and natural timbre, making extended listening sessions highly enjoyable. A key benefit is its remarkably quiet operation, allowing subtle musical details to emerge clearly. Furthermore, users appreciate the convenience of remote controlled loading and gain adjustments, simplifying cartridge matching. While premium priced, the PH9 is viewed as a worthwhile investment due to its superb build quality and reliable performance, significantly elevating the overall vinyl experience.
Know before you buy
Yes, the PH9 is designed to accommodate both cartridge types. With 58 dB of gain, it provides sufficient amplification for most MM and high-output MC cartridges, as well as many low-output MC models.
You can easily cycle through the five selectable impedance settings (100, 200, 500, 1,000, and 47,000 ohms) using the included remote control. This allows you to fine-tune the loading for your cartridge while listening from your chair.
As a vacuum tube-based preamplifier, the PH9 will perform best once the tubes have reached their optimal operating temperature. While it will produce sound immediately, you will notice increased transparency and depth after the unit has been powered on for about 20 to 30 minutes.
The PH9 features a built-in tube hour monitoring system that tracks usage. This takes the guesswork out of maintenance, ensuring you can replace the tubes before they degrade and affect your audio quality.
No, the PH9 is designed with unbalanced RCA inputs and outputs. It is optimized for standard single-ended connections to maintain the integrity of the signal path.
The tube-regulated power supply provides a more stable and cleaner voltage to the audio circuitry compared to standard solid-state regulation. This contributes to the unit's exceptionally low noise floor and the natural, linear frequency response characteristic of the Foundation Series.
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