Lupe vs Clearaudio Balance Reference
The Balance Reference's mm gain is 46 dB against the Lupe's 45 dB, its mc gain 66 dB against 87 dB, its output impedance 150Ω against 100Ω, and its output voltage 12.0V RMS against 2.0V RMS.
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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The Mola Mola Lupe is a sophisticated phono stage designed for discerning vinyl enthusiasts. It features three single-ended RCA inputs and one balanced XLR input, with both balanced and single-ended outputs. The Lupe employs fully independent MC and MM input stages optimized for current and voltage noise respectively, each with a short signal path. Gain is adjustable in 5dB steps over a 40dB range, with total gain from 45dB to 87dB, accommodating cartridge outputs from 30uV to 5mV. Input resistance and capacitance are individually switchable, with multiple load options for MM and MC cartridges. The unit supports 47 different EQ presets including RIAA and various 78 RPM curves, selectable and adjustable via a dedicated app or front panel controls. It includes a subsonic filter to protect speakers and reduce distortion. The Lupe is housed in a compact chassis (200 x 110 x 320 mm), weighs 5.1 kg, and requires about 300 hours of needle-time for optimal stabilization. It comes with a dedicated power supply and offers a 2-year warranty extendable to 5 years with registration. The phono stage is digitally controlled but all switching occurs in the analog domain, ensuring sonic purity. Its design and features make it one of the quietest and most versatile phono stages available, suitable for multiple turntables and cartridges simultaneously.
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 Balance Reference's mm gain is 46 dB against the Lupe's 45 dB, its mc gain 66 dB against 87 dB, its output impedance 150Ω against 100Ω, and its output voltage 12.0V RMS against 2.0V RMS.
The H7000's mm gain is 40 dB against the Lupe's 45 dB, its output impedance 200Ω against 100Ω, its output voltage 1.0V RMS against 2.0V RMS, and its weight 15.7 kg (35 lbs) against 5.1 kg (11 lbs).
The E02's mm gain is 40 dB against the Lupe's 45 dB, its mc gain 72 dB against 87 dB, and its output impedance 0.1Ω against 100Ω. Both share output voltage (2.0V RMS).
The E.A.T. E-Glo 2's mm gain is 46 dB against the Lupe's 45 dB, its mc gain 76 dB against 87 dB, its output impedance 150Ω against 100Ω, and its weight 5.3 kg (12 lbs) against 5.1 kg (11 lbs).
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