Cyrus 40 PPA Phono Preamplifier

The Cyrus 40 PPA is a dedicated phono preamplifier built for serious vinyl playback. With four independently configurable turntable inputs supporting both MC and MM cartridges, balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, and a selectable warp filter for handling less-than-perfect pressings, it covers the full scope of analog setups from a single chassis. The 40 PPA builds on decades of phono stage development at Cyrus, incorporating lessons from the Phono Signature and Phono X into a completely new 6-layer PCB layout that isolates critical signal paths and reduces the noise floor by 20% over previous designs. Front-panel level meters with peak hold let you dial in MC gain with precision, and the full-color 3.5-inch display puts every parameter at a glance: cartridge type, gain level, impedance, capacitance, warp filter status, and input selection. All settings are stored per input, so switching between turntables requires no reconfiguration. Scored 10/10 and "Best in Class" by AV Forums, and "Highly Recommended" by What Hi-Fi?.

Key Features of the Cyrus 40 PPA

• Four Turntable Inputs: Connect up to four turntables or phono sources, each independently configurable for MC or MM cartridges with stored settings per input
• MC and MM Compatibility: Adjustable gain in 5dB steps with configurable impedance loading and capacitance settings for precise cartridge matching
• Balanced and Unbalanced Outputs: XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced outputs for maximum system flexibility
• 6-Layer PCB Design: Expanded board layout isolates analog, digital, and power circuits for a 20% lower noise floor than previous Cyrus phono stages
• Stereo Level Meters: Real-time output meters with peak hold for optimizing MC gain without guesswork
• Warp Filter: Built-in low-frequency filter reduces bass excursion from warped records, protecting your amplifier and speakers
• Ground Lift Switch: Eliminates ground loop hum when integrating with different system topologies
• Custom Remote Control: Full system control from the listening position, including input switching, gain adjustment, and settings navigation
• 40 PSU Compatible: External power supply upgrade delivers further noise reduction and dynamic improvement
• 5-Year Warranty: Backed by Cyrus' industry-leading warranty

40 PPA Overview

Circuit Design and Signal Path

The 40 PPA represents a complete redesign of Cyrus' phono amplification platform. The move from a 4-layer to a 6-layer PCB was driven by the need to isolate critical circuits more effectively. High-gain phono signals are extremely sensitive to interference from nearby digital control circuitry and power supply switching noise, and the additional board layers create dedicated ground planes and shielding that keep these signals properly separated. The result is a measurably quieter noise floor, particularly at the high gain settings required by low-output MC cartridges. The analog signal path uses a high-capacity, low-noise DC power supply with careful regulation to maintain stable voltage rails under dynamic musical passages.

MC and MM Cartridge Support

All four inputs on the 40 PPA accept both moving coil and moving magnet cartridges. MC cartridges benefit from adjustable gain in 5dB increments, configurable impedance loading, and capacitance trimming, allowing you to match the electrical characteristics of everything from budget MCs to high-end designs. MM cartridges get their own optimized gain and loading profiles. Each input stores its own configuration independently, so switching between turntables or between MC and MM cartridges on different arms requires no manual reconfiguration. The front-panel display confirms every setting at a glance: cartridge type, gain level, impedance, capacitance, and warp filter status.

Display and Front Panel Control

The 40 PPA shares the 40 Series' full-color 3.5-inch TFT display, providing real-time feedback on all operating parameters. The stereo output level meters with peak hold are particularly useful when setting MC gain: play a record and visually confirm that the output level is optimized without clipping. Navigation through settings is handled by the front-panel touch buttons or the included wireless remote control, which covers input selection, gain adjustment, warp filter toggling, and all cartridge configuration parameters. The brushed aluminum chassis and anodised black finish match the rest of the 40 Series lineup for a cohesive system aesthetic.

Warp Filter and Signal Protection

Warped records generate subsonic energy that can overdrive amplifiers and cause woofer pumping, wasting power and stressing drivers. The 40 PPA's selectable warp filter addresses this by rolling off the lowest frequencies before they reach your amplifier. When engaged, the filter cleans up the signal without affecting the audible bass range, letting you play less-than-perfect pressings without worry. When your records are flat, switch the filter off for a completely unprocessed signal path.

40 PSU External Power Upgrade

Like every component in the 40 Series, the 40 PPA is designed to accept the Cyrus 40 PSU external power supply. The dedicated PSU delivers multiple digitally regulated voltage rails through a single connection, further reducing electrical noise from the internal power supply and providing greater dynamic headroom. For systems where the turntable is the primary source, the PSU upgrade yields a noticeable improvement in background silence and micro-detail retrieval. A dedicated rear-panel connector makes the upgrade a one-cable addition.

Build Your Cyrus 40 Series System

The 40 PPA integrates seamlessly with the rest of the Cyrus 40 Series. Pair it with the Cyrus 40 Amp integrated amplifier for a complete vinyl playback chain, or add the Cyrus 40 ST music streamer for digital sources alongside your turntable. The Cyrus 40 CD completes the picture for physical media enthusiasts. Every 40 Series component shares the same chassis dimensions, display style, and 40 PSU upgrade path, creating a system that performs and looks like it was designed as one.

THE LISTENING ROOM DIFFERENCE

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on trust, not hype. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection.

Cyrus 40 PPA Specifications