Audio Research
Audio Research PH2 Vintage Solid-State Phono Preamplifier
Best solid-state choice for audiophiles seeking neutral, high-fidelity vinyl playback.
Experience pristine vinyl playback with the Audio Research PH2, a vintage solid-state phono preamplifier from the 1990s. This unit offers a distinct departure from traditional tube designs, featuring fully balanced, all-solid-state circuitry for exceptional neutrality and clarity. Renowned for its remarkably quiet operation and precise sonic accuracy, the PH2 delivers a clean, detailed soundstage. It's an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking a high-fidelity analog experience, compatible with both MC and MM cartridges, and boasting robust internal power regulation for consistent performance.
$1299.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
304
/ 473
#304 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-81%
Below average
Circuitry Type
Solid State
/ Solid State
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and uncolored vinyl playback
- Collectors valuing long-term reliability and classic build standards
- Vinyl enthusiasts using diverse MM and high-output MC cartridges
Who should skip it
- Buyers wary of potential maintenance and recapping costs
- Listeners using ultra-low-output moving coil cartridges
- Users requiring frequent or remote cartridge loading adjustments
Performance breakdown
Sonic Neutrality
Solid-state architecture delivers an exceptionally transparent and uncolored analog signal.
Noise Floor
Remarkably quiet operation ensures delicate musical details remain free from interference.
Cartridge Versatility
Seamlessly handles both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges with ease.
Signal Precision
RIAA equalization accuracy provides a faithful reproduction of the original recording.
Build Integrity
Robust internal power regulation ensures consistent, long-term performance for vintage hardware.
Connectivity Options
Balanced XLR outputs offer professional-grade integration for high-end audio systems.
Key Specs
Circuitry Type
Solid State
Output Connection Types
XLR Balanced
Input Impedance
47K ohms (Balanced)
Equalization Curve Support
RIAA
Signal to Noise Ratio
77 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion
0.005%
Subsonic Filter
No
Headphone Output
No
Features
- Fully balanced, all-solid-state circuitry
- Exceptional neutrality and clarity
- Remarkably quiet operation
- Precise sonic accuracy
- MC and MM cartridge compatible
- Electronically-regulated power supplies
- Vintage 1990s design
- High-end performance standard
What customers say
The Audio Research PH2 is celebrated for its outstanding sonic neutrality and remarkably low noise floor. Users consistently highlight its talent for producing a spacious soundstage with precise imaging, offering detailed and accurate vinyl playback. It represents a significant upgrade, adeptly handling dynamic shifts with a clean, uncolored sound. While its vintage build is robust, potential maintenance for older equipment should be considered for optimal reliability. When well cared for, the PH2 delivers world-class performance that often outperforms modern options, making it a prized component for listeners seeking accuracy and transparency.
Know before you buy
Unlike the brand's signature tube designs, the PH2 utilizes fully balanced, all-solid-state circuitry. This results in a more neutral, precise, and remarkably quiet sonic profile that prioritizes transparency over the traditional 'warmth' associated with vacuum tubes.
Yes, the PH2 is designed to accommodate both MM and MC cartridges, making it a versatile choice for various turntable setups. It provides the necessary gain and impedance handling to ensure high-fidelity playback across different cartridge types.
No, the PH2 does not include a subsonic filter or a mono switch. It is designed as a purist, high-performance preamplifier focused strictly on accurate RIAA equalization and signal amplification.
The PH2 is equipped with XLR balanced outputs. To get the best performance, you should pair it with an amplifier that also supports balanced inputs.
The unit features robust, electronically-regulated internal power supplies. This design ensures consistent performance and minimizes noise, which is critical for maintaining the unit's high signal-to-noise ratio.
The PH2 offers an impressive frequency response of 10Hz to 60kHz, maintaining accuracy within ±.15dB of the RIAA curve. This ensures that the full spectrum of your vinyl records is captured with high precision.
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