Sutherland Engineering
Sutherland 20/20 MK2 Phono Preamplifier
Best high-fidelity upgrade for dedicated vinyl enthusiasts seeking precise sound.
The Sutherland 20/20 Mk2 Phono Preamplifier is a high-performance phono preamplifier designed to elevate your vinyl listening experience. It expertly handles both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of turntables. This unit is built with meticulous attention to quality, promising durability and consistent performance. Its design focuses on delivering exceptional audio fidelity, allowing you to hear every detail in your records. The user-friendly interface makes setup and operation straightforward, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking superior sound reproduction from their vinyl collection.
$2500.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
376
/ 466
#376 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-64%
Below average
Gain Options
4046525864
/ dB, dB, dB, dB, dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute clarity and detail in their vinyl playback
- Vinyl enthusiasts using diverse or high-end cartridge configurations
- Purists prioritizing noise-free, stable, and high-fidelity signal paths
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners looking for entry-level or mid-range equipment
- Users who prefer quick, convenient adjustments without opening the chassis
- Collectors who frequently swap between multiple turntables or cartridge types
Performance breakdown
Cartridge Compatibility
Extensive gain and loading settings accommodate almost any high-end cartridge.
Signal Isolation
Dual-mono architecture effectively eliminates crosstalk for a pristine, silent background.
Power Cleanliness
Innovative power design mimics battery isolation for ultra-low noise floor performance.
Setup Simplicity
Internal shunt adjustments make fine-tuning your sound profile quick and intuitive.
Build Integrity
Robust shielded compartments ensure long-term durability and protection from interference.
Sonic Transparency
Delivers an exceptionally detailed soundstage that reveals hidden layers in vinyl.
Key Specs
Gain Options
40 dB, 46 dB, 52 dB, 58 dB, 64 dB
Loading Options
47.5 k Ohm, 1 k Ohms, 475 Ohms, 200 Ohms, 100 Ohms
Dimensions
17" x 2.5" x 12"
Weight
11 lbs
Power Consumption
20 watts
Operating Voltage
100 to 240 volts
Number of Outputs
2
Number of Channels
2
Features
- Dual-mono construction with two identical mono phono stages
- Each channel on its own circuit board with shielded compartment
- Independent AC power supply and power cord for each channel
- Designed to offer battery-like isolation from AC line power
- Adjustable gain and loading options for precise cartridge matching
- Quick and easy setup with shunts for gain and loading adjustments
- Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
- High-quality build for longevity
- User-friendly interface
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Sutherland 20/20 MK2 Phono Preamplifier for its exceptional sound quality, often describing it as remarkably clear, detailed, and musical. Many highlight its ability to reveal new layers in familiar recordings, creating an immersive listening experience. The robust build quality and elegant, minimalist design also receive high marks, contributing to a sense of premium craftsmanship and reliability. Users appreciate its straightforward operation and the significant upgrade it brings to their vinyl playback systems, justifying its position as a top tier component.
Know before you buy
Yes, the unit is fully compatible with both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. You can easily adjust the gain and loading settings to match the specific requirements of your cartridge.
The 20/20 Mk2 uses a straightforward shunt system located inside the chassis. You simply move the shunts to the desired pins to select your preferred gain and loading options, making it easy to dial in the perfect settings for your setup.
The dual-mono design features two completely independent phono stages, each on its own circuit board within a shielded compartment. This isolation minimizes crosstalk between channels, resulting in a more precise and expansive soundstage.
No, the unit is designed to provide battery-like isolation from the AC line power. Because each channel has its own independent power supply and power cord, the unit effectively filters out noise from the AC line on its own.
The preamplifier offers five gain settings ranging from 40 dB to 64 dB. For loading, you can choose between 47.5k Ohm, 1k Ohm, 475 Ohms, 200 Ohms, and 100 Ohms to ensure optimal performance with your specific cartridge.
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