Audiophilepure

https://www.hifinews.com/content/nagra-hd-phono-phono-preamp

The fascia is effectively divided in two with the Modulometer [see PM’s Lab Report] indicating the output level in dB and with an adjacent toggle to adjust its brightness in five steps, this next to a mono cartridge LED and rotary for setting the input loading. In the centre a ±6dB gain toggle acts on both MM and MC inputs, and to the right is an EQ rotary, mute switch and, lastly, the rotary that takes the unit from standby and selects the inputs of MC1, MC2, MM and the optional custom input (if fitted).

Inside are six valves – four EF806S-Gold pentodes in the EQ section and two E88CC/6922 triodes for the ±6dB gain block. The circuitry is dual-mono and pure Class A, naturally. For MC duties, the HD Phono employs a new generation of custom-made input transformer from a lineage that includes the original VPS transformer, in turn based on the Nagra IV-S tape recorder’s microphone input transformers. Talk about a pedigree! In Nagra lore, then, the HD Phono’s transformers are fourth-generation designs, offering 26dB of gain. The hand-wound transformer’s core is made with cobalt ‘and is cryogenically treated over the course of several weeks to improve performance’.

With a linear tonal balance, excellent dynamic range, and extreme noise floor which gives you a massive soundstage the Skoll F is a fantastic stage phono stage, and with the ability to control both input impedance and input capacitance along with both single-ended and balanced inputs (for those who have a second turntable for 78s or mono, the switchable inputs is a boon), an LF filter and four position gain control the Skoll F is incredibly versatile and the remote and Forkbeard control which add to the convenience making the Skoll F a stellar choice pitching way above its pay grade.

Using BluOS with either the PSB Alpha iQ speakers or the NAD Masters M66 Streaming Preamp allows easy high-res audio streaming from any of several integrated streaming sources directly to either component. As it stands, the BluOS platform is the only real direct competitor to something like ROON. There are differences and it isn’t as brand agnostic as ROON is, but BluOS is free when you purchase compatible hardware, and it integrates with far more streaming services and online music sources.

Speaking of hardware, I found the NAD Masters M66 Streaming Preamplifier to be a world-class analog preamp that has extensive digital resources and “Swiss Army Knife” flexibility in the bargain.

The PSB Alpha iQ BluOs Streaming speakers are a fun and great-sounding turnkey streaming solution for small to moderate spaces. Both are great examples, at different ends of the spectrum, of what the BluOS platform can do.

We’d always recommend you pair a Bluetooth turntable with a great-sounding pair of wireless headphones or Bluetooth speakers to get the most out of your vinyl playback. The Pro-Ject pairs well with a variety of kit, from Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones to the Ruark MR1 Mk2 desktop speakers.

The Pro-Ject T1 Evo BT has an effortless way with music that makes listening to it very appealing, too. Its fluid and easy-going delivery might come at the expense of outright rhythmic attack and punch, but it has a mature balance that puts refinement to the fore.

There’s a satisfying amount of body and authenticity to vocals and instruments, ample dynamic contrast and snap when the music calls for it, and a general sense of spaciousness.