Condition 9/10

No box 

https://www.tonepublications.com/review/audio-research-ph-6-phono-preamplifier/

As the analog renaissance shows no signs of diminishing, the PH6 opens the door to truly high performance analog music playback in a price range that is within reach of many music lovers.

The PH6 is a hybrid phono stage with a low-noise, high-gain JFET input stage with constant current stabilization and no overall feedback. Unlike its predecessors, the PH6 incorporates two high current 6H30 twin triodes in the gain and output stages; you can expect over 4,000 hours from the PH6’s tube set.

Total gain is 58dB, more than sufficient for low output moving coil cartridges when it is partnered with an appropriate line stage. Bandwidth is an incredible <0.5Hz to 400kHz (-3dB).

The PH6 incorporates the same cosmetic changes seen on our other recent products, with silver handles and small aluminum buttons under the LED display; black front panels and black handles are also available. The operation of the PH6 could not be simpler, with front panel buttons that control Power, Mute, Mono, and Loading. Loading choices are 47K, 1000, 500, 200 or 100 ohms.

All functions are duplicated on the supplied remote control, so you can make any adjustment from the comfort of your listening position.

The rear panel includes one pair of single-ended inputs, a ground post, and a 15A IEC connector. Sonically, the PH6 is in another league from its predecessors and the competition. Its improvements are immediately apparent—higher resolution, improved micro and macro dynamics, tighter image focus with a more expansive soundstage, and simply more air.

The presentation is vivid, allowing you to hear into the music.

The real surprise is how pure and relaxed the PH6 sounds, allowing you to lose yourself in the performance.

As soon as you hear the PH6 you will understand what makes vinyl playback so magical. Like all Audio Research products, the PH6 is made by hand in our Plymouth, Minnesota facility.

Connections are hand-soldered, not press-fit nor wave-soldered.

All metalwork, boards, transformers and major parts are American-made and sourced locally.

FREQUENCY RESPONSE ±0.2dB of RIAA, 10Hz to 60kHz; 3dB points below 0.5Hz and above 400kHz DISTORTION (THD) Less than .005% at .50V RMS 1kHz output. NOISE & HUM 0.15µV equivalent input noise, IHF weighted, shorted input (76 dB below 1mV 1kHz input) GAIN 58dB at 1kHz (MC & MM compatible) INPUT IMPEDANCE Selectable 47K, 1000, 500, 200, or 100 ohms with 200pF Unbalanced OUTPUT IMPEDANCE 200 ohms Unbalanced.

Recommended load 50K-100K ohms and 100pF. (10K ohms minimum and 2000pF maximum.)

OUTPUT POLARITY Non-Inverting

MAXIMUM INPUTS 70mV RMS at 1kHz (180mV RMS at 10kHz)

RATED OUTPUTS .50V RMS 10Hz to 60kHz, 100K ohm load (output capability is 50V RMS output at 0.5% THD at 1kHz)