AQVOX 2CI

Second-hand. In good conditions. Shows signs of wear. Comes with original packaging and manual.

Product sold on consignment.

The AQVOX Phono 2Ci is an innovative, high-quality phono preamplifier distinguished by its zero-feedback architecture and the absence of integrated circuits in the signal path. Designed to deliver excellent performance with both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, it features a compact switch-mode power supply built into the chassis and offers two gain modes: voltage gain for the RCA inputs dedicated to MM cartridges, and current gain for the balanced XLR inputs reserved for MC cartridges. This configuration ensures high sonic precision and effective noise reduction, especially with balanced MC cartridges.

The Phono 2Ci provides a maximum gain of 68 dB on RCA inputs and up to 75 dB on XLR inputs, with extremely low distortion and noise levels. Its RIAA circuit implements the Neumann time constant, including extended compensation beyond 50 kHz, which improves high-frequency fidelity without altering the natural sound. The unit also allows customization of capacitive and resistive loading to best suit different cartridges and listening preferences.

On the front panel, a subsonic filter and two continuous gain controls allow fine adjustment of the preamplification level to optimize sound reproduction according to the vinyl being played. On the rear panel, DIP switches enable selection of input, gain, and resistive loading.

The balanced XLR input, designed for MC cartridges, is the true highlight of the Phono 2Ci: by utilizing current gain, it offers excellent noise suppression along with dynamic and precise response, provided that proper balanced wiring is used. This makes the preamplifier especially suitable for enthusiasts seeking maximum transparency and detail from their analog source.

In terms of sound, the Phono 2Ci is characterized by a clean, open, and three-dimensional presentation, with crystalline highs that are never overly bright, natural mids, and well-controlled bass. It is capable of highlighting the subtlest details and the atmosphere of recordings, revealing new nuances even in familiar records.

The AQVOX Phono 2Ci is thus an ideal phono preamplifier for those seeking transparency, accuracy, and high build quality, particularly for use with balanced moving coil cartridges. It requires careful wiring but rewards with a clear, detailed, and engaging listening experience that can transform and enhance any high-end analog audio system.

Technical specifications:

• Solid-state phono preamplifier for MM/MC with voltage-gain and current-gain inputs
• Switchable subsonic filter
• Gain: 49–68 dB (RCA input); 55–75 dB (XLR input)
• RCA input loading: 100 ohms, 1k ohm, 47k ohms in parallel with 47pF, 94pF, 147pF, 267pF, or 515pF
• XLR input loading: 10 ohms
• THD+ noise at 1V output: 0.009% minimum, 0.04% maximum (MM, RCA input); 0.019% minimum, 0.09% maximum (MC, RCA input)
• Signal-to-noise ratio (ref. 1V output): 76 dB unweighted / 84 dBA at minimum gain, 63 dB unweighted / 71 dBA at maximum gain (MM, RCA input)
• Signal-to-noise ratio (MC, RCA input): 69 dB unweighted / 78 dBA at minimum gain, 57 dB unweighted / 65 dBA at maximum gain
• Dimensions: 435 mm width x 59 mm height x 290 mm depth
• Weight: approximately 2.8 kg