PH7 vs PH9
The PH9's signal-to-noise is 77 dB against the PH7's 76 dB, its mm gain 58 dB against 57.5 dB, and its thd 0.015% against 0.005%. Both share output voltage (0.5V RMS).
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
The Audio Research PH7 is a high-definition vacuum tube phono preamplifier designed for both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. It offers exceptional performance with low distortion, wide bandwidth, and a dramatically improved noise floor compared to predecessors like the PH5. Key features include full remote control for power, mono/stereo, loading, and mute functions; JFET input stage; all-tube output with four 6922/E88CC dual triodes and three 6H30 regulators; electronically regulated power supplies; and a 30-second warm-up cycle. Housed in a robust chassis with single-ended inputs/outputs and ground terminal, it delivers lifelike imaging, superior dynamics, and coherent tonality across the frequency range. No longer manufactured, it remains highly regarded in reviews for its resolution, speed, and soundstage.
Analog signal output specifications
Phono stage specifications
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The PH9's signal-to-noise is 77 dB against the PH7's 76 dB, its mm gain 58 dB against 57.5 dB, and its thd 0.015% against 0.005%. Both share output voltage (0.5V RMS).
The Reference Phono 2's thd is 0.002% against the PH7's 0.005%, its mm gain 51 dB against 57.5 dB, and its mc gain 74 dB against 57.5 dB. Both share output voltage (0.5V RMS).
The Reference Phono 3's signal-to-noise is 71 dB against the PH7's 76 dB, its thd 0.002% against 0.005%, its mc gain 67 dB against 57.5 dB, and its mm gain 45 dB against 57.5 dB.
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The Hautonga's signal-to-noise is 90 dB against the PH7's 76 dB, its mc gain 60 dB against 57.5 dB, its thd 0.050% against 0.005%, and its mm gain 66 dB against 57.5 dB.
McIntosh C2300
ASR Audio Systeme ASR Basis Exclusive Phono
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