Sutherland Engineering
Sutherland KC Vibe MK2
Best phono preamp for audiophiles seeking precise cartridge tuning and performance.
The Sutherland KC Vibe MK2 is a phono preamplifier designed to amplify and equalize the low-level signal from your turntable. It features a robust 48-volt external power supply for superior filtering and isolation, along with high-quality machined, gold-plated audio jacks. This unit offers adjustable loading and gain settings, allowing for precise tuning to your specific cartridge and system.
$1000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
133
/ 466
#133 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-85%
Below average
Gain Settings
4045505560
/ , , , or dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and highly detailed vinyl playback
- Listeners prioritizing long-term reliability and premium construction
- Purists demanding a silent background for quiet musical passages
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners working with a restricted audio equipment budget
- Tweak-heavy enthusiasts requiring precise cartridge loading adjustments
- Users needing multiple inputs or flexible gain settings
Performance breakdown
Cartridge Versatility
Broad gain and loading options accommodate almost any high-end cartridge.
Signal Purity
External power supply effectively isolates noise for a pristine sound floor.
Build Integrity
Machined components and gold-plated jacks ensure long-term connection reliability.
Setup Flexibility
Internal adjustments allow for precise tuning to match specific system requirements.
Power Efficiency
Universal power compatibility makes it a seamless fit for any region.
Form Factor
Compact footprint saves valuable shelf space without sacrificing internal component quality.
Key Specs
Gain Settings
40, 45, 50, 55 or 60dB
Dimensions
6.5” wide x 12” deep x 2.5” high
Loading
100, 200, 475, 1k or 47k Ohms
Weight
6 lbs
Power Requirements
86 to 260 volts AC, 2 Watts Universal
Features
- Provides essential amplification and equalization for turntable signals
- Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
- Offers adjustable gain settings from 40dB to 60dB
- Features five selectable load settings for cartridge optimization
- Utilizes a 48-volt external power supply for enhanced performance
- Includes machined, gold-plated, and Teflon-insulated audio jacks
- Includes all necessary cables and setup instructions
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Sutherland KC Vibe MK2 for its exceptional sound quality, describing an immersive and detailed audio experience that elevates their listening. Reviewers frequently highlight its ability to extract nuanced musical information, creating a vibrant and engaging soundstage. The robust build quality and sophisticated design also earn high praise, reflecting a premium product that feels as good as it sounds. Many consider it a transformative component, offering significant sonic improvements and a truly high fidelity performance for serious audiophiles.
Know before you buy
Yes, the unit is fully compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. You can easily adjust the gain and loading settings to match the specific requirements of your cartridge.
The settings are adjusted via internal jumpers located inside the chassis. While this requires opening the unit, it ensures a clean signal path without the potential noise introduced by external switches.
The external power supply keeps high-voltage AC away from the sensitive audio circuitry. This isolation significantly reduces the potential for hum and interference, resulting in a quieter, more detailed sound.
Yes, the KC Vibe MK2 features a universal power supply that accepts AC voltages from 86 to 260 volts. It is designed to perform consistently regardless of your local power grid standards.
These high-quality jacks provide a secure, low-resistance connection that resists oxidation over time. The Teflon insulation helps maintain signal integrity by minimizing capacitance at the connection point.
The unit measures 6.5 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 2.5 inches high. Its compact footprint makes it easy to fit into most audio racks or shelves alongside your other components.
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