Audio Research PH9 Phono Stage

The PH9 continues Audio Research’s “High Definition” philosophy, offering a meticulously engineered phono stage that’s straightforward yet undeniably musical. From its robust power supply to its flexible loading menu, everything about the PH9 is geared toward unlocking the detail and depth hiding in your favorite records—and it merges the warmth and clarity of tube circuitry with modern convenience features like remote-selectable impedance and thorough tube monitoring. Equipped with three 6H30 vacuum tubes in its signal path (plus a 6550WE and 6H30P in the power supply), it’s primed to bring your vinyl collection into sharper focus.

"Allowing the PH9 into my system has made it come to life and it's not being suppressed anymore, there is no bottleneck in the chain. Instead, it's allowing the music to do the what it should. and it does it with such grace and composure..."

-The Speaker Shack

Key Features

• Trio of 6H30 Tubes: Simplifies the signal path while maintaining vivid, tube-driven sound.
• Five Impedance Settings: Switch instantly between 47k, 1000, 500, 200, or 100 ohms via remote—no DIP switches required.
• Single-Ended Design: Straightforward internal topology for reduced complexity and maximum transparency.
• User-Friendly Menu System: View tube hours, adjust auto-shutdown, and configure cartridge loading from the front panel or remote.
• Built-In Reliability: A dedicated 6550WE and 6H30P in the power supply help ensure stable operation over the long haul.

Design and Build

Hand-assembled in Minnesota, the PH9 is part of Audio Research’s continuing legacy of tube-focused innovation. Its single-ended signal path uses a minimal number of components to preserve every subtlety coming off your turntable. A robust power supply—employing a separate 6550WE regulator tube—keeps voltages stable, while the main chassis offers a clean, modern aesthetic. The front panel menu system and remote control facilitate easy loading changes, so you can optimize your cartridge’s performance without lifting the tonearm.

Performance

In operation, the PH9 stands out for its natural, open sound. Expect extended frequency response, letting your records’ upper harmonics and low-end rumble come through with clarity. The 58dB of gain suits most medium-output moving coil cartridges, as well as some high-end moving magnets or Grado-style moving irons. Noise levels are commendably low, helping delicate musical passages remain distinct even at higher volume settings. Whether spinning a classic jazz LP or a modern rock pressing, the PH9 presents music with both tube warmth and transparent detail.

Technology

A suite of five impedance settings—47k, 1000, 500, 200, and 100 ohms—accommodates a broad spectrum of cartridges, from high-output MMs to mid-output MCs. Changing load values is as simple as pressing a button on the included metal remote, so you can instantly compare settings. Meanwhile, the PH9’s internal architecture revolves around three 6H30 tubes in the main signal path, plus separate tubes in the supply. The result is a straightforward circuit that conveys lifelike texture and dynamics. Precision-regulated power rails and thorough protective measures further elevate reliability.

Versatility and Compatibility

Though the PH9 is single-ended rather than fully balanced, it pairs gracefully with a variety of turntables and cartridges. Its 58dB gain level is generally ideal for cartridges in the 0.4–0.6mV range, though higher-output cartridges can also find a happy home here. Furthermore, the 200-ohm or 100-ohm settings cater to many popular moving coils, while the 47k option remains open for moving magnet and certain high-output MC designs.

"As exciting as the cost no object components are, the ARC PH9 offers an incredibly high level of performance for the price asked. It was indeed impressive when we listened to it two years ago as part of the Foundation series. Still, after a significant update to my main system, it’s even easier to hear what an overachiever this phonostage is. Every time I ask the question, “how can they make it better?” the engineers at ARC meet the challenge." - TONEAudio

The Listening Room Experience

At The Listening Room, we take pride in offering more than just high-fidelity audio equipment. We provide expert advice, personalized service, and a commitment to helping you find the perfect sound system for your space. From delivery to custom setup, our goal is to ensure that every piece of equipment you purchase performs at its absolute best in your environment. Trust us to be your partners in the pursuit of exceptional sound.

Specifications

• Frequency Response: ±0.2dB of RIAA, 5Hz to 20kHz; –3dB points below 0.3Hz & above 80kHz
• Distortion: <0.015% at 3V RMS (1kHz output)
• Gain: 58dB at 1kHz
• Input Impedance: Selectable: 47k, 1000, 500, 200, 100 ohms
• Output Impedance: 200Ω (recommended load 50k–100kΩ; 10kΩ min)
• Output Polarity: Non-inverting
• Maximum Input: 80mV RMS at 1kHz
• Rated Outputs: 0.5V RMS from 10Hz–60kHz, into 100kΩ load
• Controls: 6 push buttons (Power, Menu, Option, Enter, Input, Mute)
• Noise: 77dB (shorted inputs)
• Tube Complement: 3× 6H30P dual triodes in signal path; 1× 6550WE & 1× 6H30P in power supply
• Power Requirements: 100–125VAC or 200–250VAC at 50–60Hz; 120W max, 2W in standby
• Dimensions: 19" (48cm) W × 6.5" (13.7cm) H × 13.7" (34.8cm) D; handles extend 1.6" (4cm)
• Weight: 15.4 lbs (7kg) net; 23.5 lbs (10.7kg) shipping