MBL 9007

Pre owned. In excellent condition. Free from any evident signs of wear. Includes remote control, manual, and original packaging.

Stereo preamplifier from MBL’s Noble line, designed to sit between source components and the power amplifier while maintaining a direct signal path and offering extensive system configuration options. The design focuses on preserving the characteristics of the connected components, intervening primarily in volume control, source selection, and signal distribution.

The input section features five standard inputs, one balanced XLR and four unbalanced RCA, with additional optional modules available, including the CD Direct input and MM phono stage. A fixed bypass circuit is also provided, allowing the preamplifier to be integrated into systems equipped with an external processor.

Particularly versatile is the output section, organized into two completely separate groups, each equipped with three connections, combining XLR and RCA outputs. Each group has its own independent auxiliary volume control, in addition to the main volume control, which operates simultaneously on both sections. This configuration allows the level of the two output groups to be adjusted independently and enables the preamplifier to accommodate different system configurations, including systems with two listening zones or bi-amping setups.

The ability to control the output levels independently also makes it possible to compensate for differences in gain between different amplifiers. In a bi-amplified configuration, for example, one output group can feed the power amplifier assigned to the low frequencies, while the other feeds the amplifier dedicated to the mid/high range, with the respective levels adjusted independently. The same flexibility can be used to connect subwoofers or additional amplifiers.

From a construction standpoint, the MBL 5011 features a substantial chassis and a structure designed to minimize the influence of mechanical vibrations on the circuitry. The integrated feet provide mechanical isolation and allow the preamplifier to be used without necessarily requiring dedicated external supports.

The volume control section uses a high-quality analog potentiometer, while the extensive range of functions includes source selection, volume adjustment, balance control, output management, and integration with external equipment. The configuration is therefore designed to accommodate both conventional stereo systems and more complex installations.

In listening, the MBL 5011 combines characteristics generally associated with solid-state electronics, such as dynamics, articulation, and low-frequency control, with a smoother and more tonally rich presentation. The reproduction maintains a good level of transparency without becoming excessively analytical, while the midrange appears well defined and characterized by good harmonic density.

The low frequencies stand out for their weight, attack, and ability to follow the dynamic variations of the musical program, while the upper midrange and treble retain detail and articulation without sounding particularly aggressive. The result is a balanced reproduction in which dynamics, smoothness, and tonal richness coexist without the preamplifier imposing a pronounced coloration on the system.

The MBL 5011 is also characterized by its ability to convey the rhythm and dynamic variations of the recording, accompanied by a soundstage developed both in width and depth. The positioning of the performers is well defined and stable, with a good perception of the spatial relationships between the different sound sources.

Technical specifications MBL 5011:

• Inputs: 7; XLR (1x), CD (2x), High Level/Tape (1x), Processor (1x), Option (2x)
• Outputs: 6, divided into 2 groups; Group 1: XLR (2x), RCA (1x); Group 2: XLR (1x), RCA (2x)
• Frequency response: CD DC – 1.0 MHz; High Level DC – 600 kHz
• Output level: 1 V – 11 V max.
• Output impedance: 100 Ω
• Input sensitivity: High Level 315 mV
• Signal-to-noise ratio: CD 108/110 dB, 1 V, 2 Ω; High Level 105/110 dB, 1 V, 2 Ω
• Maximum load level: 11 V
• Input impedance: CD 5 kΩ; High Level 50 kΩ; Processor 10 kΩ
• Channel separation: 95 dB
• Power consumption: 14 VA in standby; 16 VA idle; 20 VA maximum
• Power supply: 230/115 V AC, 50/60 Hz
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 450 × 155 × 440 mm
• Weight: 16.5 kg