Audio Research Reference Phono 10 Phono Stage

In the world of ultra-high-end audio, there are components, and then there are definitive statements. The Audio Research Reference Phono 10 is the latter. This is a phono stage designed without compromise, a magnificent two-chassis instrument conceived to extract the absolute truth from the record groove. By completely separating the power supply from the delicate audio circuit, the REF Phono 10 achieves a level of signal purity and silence that is simply unattainable in a single-box design. Controlled by a stunning touchscreen interface and featuring a massive, all-tube audio path with dual inputs, this is the ultimate tool for the vinyl archivist and the listener who demands the most immersive, realistic, and emotionally profound connection to their record collection.

Key Features

• Two-Chassis Reference Design: A separate, full-size chassis for the power supply completely isolates the audio circuit from all electrical and mechanical noise, creating an unprecedentedly black background.
• Touchscreen Command Center: A beautiful front-panel touchscreen provides intuitive, complete control over all functions, including input selection, gain, loading, and EQ curves.
• Dual Phono Inputs: Two separate, fully configurable phono inputs allow for the connection of two turntables or two tonearms, each with its own saved settings.
• Massive All-Tube Signal Path: The audio circuit features a staggering ten 6H30 vacuum tubes (five per channel) in a pure Class-A, fully balanced configuration.
• Tube-Regulated Power Supply: The separate power supply chassis features its own 6550C and 6H30 tubes for vacuum-tube regulation, ensuring the purest possible power.
• Highly Configurable Loading: Seven selectable impedance settings (1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 25, 10 ohms) plus a custom option to perfectly match any phono cartridge.
• User-Selectable EQ Curves: In addition to the standard RIAA curve, it includes Columbia and Decca equalization curves for proper playback of vintage and non-standard pressings.
• Selectable Gain Settings: Offers 45dB and 67dB of gain, making it compatible with the full range of Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges.
• Built-in Tube Hour Meter: An integrated timer on the touchscreen display tracks the usage of the vacuum tubes.
• Classic Audio Research Build: Two matching, full-size chassis, handcrafted in Minnesota, USA, represent the pinnacle of Audio Research design and build quality.

The Purity of Separation

The Reference Phono 10’s two-chassis design is the ultimate expression of high-fidelity principles. By placing the massive power transformers and complex regulation circuits in an entirely separate, full-size chassis, any potential for electrical or mechanical interference with the delicate audio signal is eliminated. This complete isolation creates a profoundly silent background, allowing the audio circuit to amplify the micro-volt signal from your cartridge with a level of purity and clarity that reveals the finest, most subtle details in a recording. The result is a soundstage of breathtaking scale and focus, where music emerges from a void of pure blackness.

The Touch of Command

Interacting with the Reference Phono 10 is as luxurious as listening to it. All setup and operational controls are accessed via a beautiful and intuitive touchscreen on the front of the power supply unit. From this command center, you can effortlessly switch between the two phono inputs, select the perfect gain and impedance loading for your cartridge, choose the correct EQ curve for your record, and monitor tube hours. This elegant interface removes all guesswork and provides immediate, comprehensive control over the most advanced phono stage in the world.

An Ocean of Tubes

The audio chassis of the REF Phono 10 is a testament to Audio Research's mastery of vacuum tube design. The massive, fully balanced, pure Class-A circuit employs ten 6H30 dual-triode tubes—five per channel—to handle the amplification. This no-compromise approach ensures a sound that is dynamically explosive, harmonically complete, and dimensionally holographic. The dedication to tube purity extends even to the power supply, which uses its own 6550C and 6H30 tubes for regulation, ensuring that the audio circuit is fed the cleanest, most stable power imaginable.

The Ultimate Vinyl Archive

For the serious collector, the REF Phono 10 is an indispensable tool. Its dual inputs allow for the seamless integration of two different turntables or a turntable with two tonearms, each with its own dedicated, saved settings for gain and loading. This makes A/B comparisons effortless and allows you to optimize playback for both a stereo and a mono cartridge, for example. The inclusion of selectable Decca and Columbia EQ curves, in addition to the standard RIAA, guarantees that your collection of vintage and non-standard pressings can finally be heard with the correct tonal balance, exactly as the recording engineers intended.

The Listening Room Difference

When you shop with The Listening Room, you get more than just gear. As a third-generation, family-run business with a passion for music and decades of experience, we offer personalized service that goes far beyond the sale. Call, text, or email, and you’ll get a real human who knows this equipment inside and out. From in-store demos to curated home system design and wide-radius delivery, we’re here to help you get the absolute best out of your purchase.

Specifications