Boulder 508 MM / MC Phono Preamplifier
Best ultimate fidelity for discerning audiophiles.
The Boulder 508 MM/MC Phono Preamplifier is a dedicated component designed to elevate your vinyl listening experience. It offers exceptional clarity and accuracy for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, ensuring that every nuance of your record collection is reproduced faithfully. Built with Boulder's renowned attention to detail and sonic performance, this phono preamplifier is an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking to optimize their analog playback system. Its robust construction and precise circuitry deliver a superior signal path for your turntable.
$3649.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
10
/ 895
#10 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-47%
Below average
Weight
11.5
/ pounds
Who it's for
- Audiophiles prioritizing absolute fidelity and an uncolored vinyl playback experience.
- Discerning collectors valuing enduring craftsmanship and dependable high-end audio components.
- Vinyl enthusiasts with diverse cartridge preferences or plans for system evolution.
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious listeners or those seeking high-value performance without extreme cost.
- Users desiring multi-functional components or an all-in-one audio solution.
- Listeners with mid-range systems or those not ready for a full high-end system overhaul.
Performance breakdown
Signal Clarity
Ultra-quiet circuitry reveals hidden textures in your favorite vinyl pressings.
Cartridge Versatility
Seamlessly handles both MM and MC setups with precise impedance matching.
Build Integrity
Solid aluminum chassis provides exceptional vibration damping and long-term durability.
Gain Precision
Expertly calibrated gain stages ensure optimal volume levels for any cartridge.
RIAA Accuracy
Faithful equalization curve reproduction maintains the artist's original sonic intent.
Setup Simplicity
Straightforward design makes integrating this high-end component into your system easy.
Key Specs
Weight
11.5 pounds
Chassis Material
Aluminum
Amplification Type
Solid State
Circuitry Type
Solid State
Number of Inputs
1
Input Impedance MC
100 ohms
Input Impedance MM
47k ohms
Gain MM
44dB
Know before you buy
Yes, the 508 is designed to support both cartridge types. You can easily switch between MM and MC modes to accommodate your specific turntable setup.
The Boulder 508 features a fixed input impedance of 47k ohms for Moving Magnet cartridges and 100 ohms for Moving Coil cartridges, which are standard values for most high-end analog systems.
The unit provides 44dB of gain for Moving Magnet cartridges and 70dB of gain for Moving Coil cartridges, ensuring sufficient signal amplification for a wide range of output levels.
No, the Boulder 508 is equipped with a single input. It is designed as a dedicated, high-performance component for a single turntable system.
The 508 is constructed with a robust aluminum chassis and weighs 11.5 pounds. This solid build helps minimize mechanical vibrations and interference, contributing to the unit's overall sonic clarity.
Yes, the Boulder 508 utilizes the standard RIAA equalization curve, ensuring that your vinyl records are reproduced with the intended tonal balance and accuracy.
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