TRICHORD DINO MK I

Pre owned. In good condition. Shows signs of wear as pictured. Supplied without original packaging.

The Trichord Dino is a phono stage designed for use with MM and MC cartridges, featuring solid-state circuitry and extensive configuration options. The design incorporates elements from the Delphini model, from which it derives as a simplified version with specific circuit improvements, maintaining a technical approach focused on signal accuracy and control.

The unit features a separate power supply, based on an external 40 VA toroidal transformer housed in its own enclosure. The voltage is subsequently rectified and regulated inside the main chassis, which contains 2200 µF smoothing capacitors for each rail and two low-noise discrete regulators. This arrangement helps maintain a stable power supply for the audio circuits while reducing interference.

The amplification section is organised into two stages, with passive RIAA equalisation positioned between them. The first stage uses an SSM2017 integrated circuit with adjustable gain and input impedance, while the second employs a FET operational amplifier combined with a discrete Class A output stage. MCap polypropylene capacitors are used in the most critical sections of the RIAA equalisation network.

One of the Dino's main features is its ability to adapt to different cartridge types through two sets of internal DIP switches. These allow adjustment of gain, input resistance and capacitance, providing several configuration options to optimise compatibility with both moving-magnet (MM) and moving-coil (MC) cartridges. This flexibility allows the same phono stage to accommodate cartridges with different electrical characteristics.

The construction features a silver-finished Perspex chassis, with a minimalist front panel and a blue status indicator. The rear panel houses the audio connectors, power supply socket and dedicated grounding terminal.

The sound reproduction is characterised by an open and detailed presentation, with a good ability to reveal the information contained in recordings. The response is controlled and precise, with dynamic and well-articulated performance, without seeking a particularly soft presentation or warm tonal coloration. The solid-state design prioritises definition and stability, maintaining good consistency even when used with cartridges of different characteristics.

Technical Specifications:

• Type: Solid-state phono stage for MM and MC cartridges
• Circuit Design: Two amplification stages with passive RIAA equalisation between them
• First Stage: SSM2017 integrated circuit with adjustable gain and input impedance
• Second Stage: FET operational amplifier with discrete Class A output stage
• Loading Resistance: 33 Ω; 100 Ω; 1 kΩ; 47 kΩ
• Loading Capacitance: 1.1 nF (MC); 100 pF (MC)
• Gain: 48 dB; 52 dB; 63 dB; 70 dB; 74 dB
• RIAA Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Components: MCap polypropylene capacitors in the RIAA equalisation circuit
• Power Supply: Separate external power supply with 40 VA toroidal transformer
• AC Supply: 0–17 V; 0–17 V, 50/60 Hz
• DC Supply: 0–22 V; 0–22 V
• Rectification and Filtering: Internal circuit with 2200 µF capacitors per rail
• Regulation: Two low-noise discrete regulators
• Adjustments: Internal DIP switches for gain, input resistance and capacitance configuration
• Cartridge Compatibility: MM and MC
• Optional Power Supply: Upgraded version available; compatible with Trichord Orca power supply
• Dimensions: 13 × 5.8 × 11.2 cm (W × H × D)
• Weight: Less than 1 kg