Canor Asterion V2 Tube Phono Preamplifier
Best high-end tube preamp for discerning vinyl enthusiasts seeking sonic perfection.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Canor Asterion V2, a high-end, all-tube phono preamplifier designed for both MM and MC cartridges. It delivers massive dynamic reserves and an expansive soundstage, utilizing nine tubes and passive RIAA equalization. High-quality Lundahl input transformers ensure noise-free MC amplification. Built without global feedback and featuring premium CMT™ PCB technology, the Asterion V2 offers extensive adjustability for impedance and capacitance, ensuring perfect synergy with virtually any phono cartridge.
$8999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
133
/ 491
#133 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+31%
Above average
Tube Complement
86922164
/ x EH / x CAEH
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking rich, musical, and detailed tube-driven sound
- Vinyl enthusiasts using diverse MM and MC cartridge collections
- Listeners prioritizing long-term reliability and premium build quality
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious hobbyists seeking entry-level or mid-range pricing
- Users preferring low-maintenance, cool-running solid-state equipment
- Owners with limited rack space or small listening rooms
Performance breakdown
Cartridge Versatility
Extensive impedance and gain settings accommodate virtually any high-end phono cartridge.
Signal Transparency
Lundahl transformers ensure ultra-quiet amplification for even the most sensitive MC.
Build Integrity
Massive, anti-vibration chassis construction provides a rock-solid foundation for delicate signals.
Dynamic Range
Nine-tube architecture delivers massive headroom and an expansive, lifelike soundstage.
RIAA Precision
Passive equalization maintains exceptional accuracy across the entire audible frequency spectrum.
Connectivity Options
Balanced XLR and RCA outputs offer seamless integration into premium audio systems.
Key Specs
Tube Complement
8 x 6922EH / 1 x 6CA4EH
Gain Settings
MM 46 dB; MC #1 70 dB; MC #2 76 dB
RIAA Accuracy
0.3 dB / 20 Hz - 20 kHz
THD
<0.1% (MM / MC at 1 VRMS)
Input Impedance (MC)
Selectable from 10 Ω to 1,200 Ω
Dimensions
435 x 170 x 485 mm
Weight
18.0 kg
Output Impedance
< 300 Ω RCA; < 600 Ω XLR
Features
- All-tube design with nine tubes
- Supports both MM and MC cartridges
- Noise-free voltage boosting via Lundahl transformers
- Extensive relay-controlled loading adjustments
- CMT™ PCB technology implemented
- Massive dynamic range and scale
- Robust, anti-vibration construction
- World-class sound quality and build
What customers say
Owners overwhelmingly praise the Canor Asterion V2 for its reference grade sonic performance. The soundstage is expansive and three dimensional, delivering remarkable detail retrieval. Users appreciate the classic tube warmth perfectly balanced with fast transients and authoritative bass. Build quality is universally lauded as robust and luxurious, justifying its premium positioning. A key factor in satisfaction is the comprehensive adjustability for both MM and MC cartridges, ensuring perfect vinyl setup matching. While expensive, the consensus is that the Asterion V2 offers world class analog reproduction, often surpassing similarly priced competitors. It successfully meets the high expectations of serious audiophiles seeking the pinnacle of vinyl playback.
Know before you buy
Yes, the Asterion V2 is designed to support both MM and MC cartridges. It features dedicated settings for each, including two distinct gain levels for MC cartridges to accommodate different output voltages.
The unit utilizes high-quality Lundahl input transformers for MC amplification. These transformers are specifically chosen for their ability to provide clean, noise-free voltage boosting, ensuring a quiet background even with sensitive cartridges.
Yes, the Asterion V2 offers extensive relay-controlled loading adjustments. You can select input impedance for MC cartridges ranging from 10 Ω to 1,200 Ω, allowing you to fine-tune the electrical load for optimal performance with almost any cartridge.
Yes, the Asterion V2 is equipped with a built-in subsonic filter. This helps manage low-frequency rumble and prevents unwanted cone excursion in your speakers, which is particularly useful when playing warped records.
The preamplifier provides both RCA (unbalanced) and XLR (balanced) output connections. This flexibility allows you to integrate it into a wide variety of high-end audio systems, whether you prefer single-ended or balanced signal paths.
Like any high-end tube component, the nine tubes will eventually require replacement depending on your usage habits. However, the Asterion V2 is built with robust, anti-vibration construction and premium CMT™ PCB technology to ensure long-term reliability and consistent performance.
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$8999