The QUALITON Phono Preamplifier MM/MC is a premium vacuum tube phono stage combining four 6SL7GT tubes, precision MM amplification and integrated MC step-up transformers.
Designed by Audio Hungary, it offers three gain configurations for compatible moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, delivering a sophisticated analogue solution within an elegant single chassis.
The Audio Hungary QUALITON Phono Preamplifier MM/MC is a high-end vacuum tube phono stage designed for serious vinyl enthusiasts seeking exceptional analogue engineering, flexible cartridge compatibility and refined musical reproduction.
Featuring four 6SL7GT vacuum tubes, a dedicated moving magnet amplification circuit and an integrated moving coil step-up transformer section, the QUALITON Phono combines traditional valve technology with a carefully engineered approach to cartridge matching.
Developed and manufactured by Audio Hungary, this phono preamplifier supports both MM and low-output MC cartridges, eliminating the need for a separate external step-up transformer in a suitably matched analogue system.
Available from Chameleon Audio, the QUALITON Phono is designed for music lovers who want to achieve the full potential of their turntable, tonearm and phono cartridge.
The QUALITON Phono represents a modern evolution of Audio Hungary’s specialist vacuum tube phono preamplifier designs.
The manufacturer redesigned its MM amplification circuitry using experience gained from the acclaimed Qualiton C200 preamplifier.
The circuit employs carefully selected valves and passive components, with particular attention paid to noise control, signal integrity and accurate RIAA equalisation.
Its compact, single-chassis design integrates moving magnet amplification and moving coil step-up functionality within one complete phono stage.
Four 6SL7GT Vacuum Tubes
Carefully Selected 6SL7GT Valves
At the heart of the QUALITON Phono are four 6SL7GT dual-triode vacuum tubes.
These valves form an important part of the low-level audio amplification architecture.
The 6SL7GT is a recognised tube type used in specialist analogue audio circuits, particularly where low-level voltage amplification is required.
Audio Hungary combines the tube circuitry with a carefully developed layout and dedicated power supply engineering.
Moving Magnet Phono Stage
The dedicated MM input is designed for compatible moving magnet phono cartridges.
Its nominal input impedance is 47kΩ, with a published input sensitivity of 5mV for the nominal output level.
The MM amplification section provides +43dB gain, making it suitable for many conventional moving magnet cartridges.
The manufacturer specifies a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz (-0.5dB) for the MM section.
Precise RIAA equalisation is essential for restoring the frequency balance of vinyl recordings during playback.
Integrated MC Step-Up Transformer
Transformer-Based Moving Coil Amplification
One of the most important features of the QUALITON Phono is its integrated moving coil step-up transformer system.
Low-output MC cartridges generate significantly smaller voltages than typical MM cartridges.
The internal step-up transformer increases the MC signal voltage through passive magnetic transformation before it reaches the vacuum tube phono amplification circuit.
This architecture combines the benefits of transformer-based cartridge matching with the convenience of a complete integrated MM/MC phono preamplifier.
It also reduces the need for separate external components and additional signal connections in compatible installations.
Two MC Cartridge Impedance Ranges
The QUALITON Phono provides two moving coil matching ranges to accommodate cartridges with different internal impedances.
MC Hi-Z
The MC Hi-Z configuration is recommended for compatible moving coil cartridges with an internal impedance of approximately 10 to 40 ohms.
The published gain is +65dB, with a nominal input sensitivity of 0.4mV.
MC Lo-Z
The MC Lo-Z configuration is recommended for compatible moving coil cartridges with an internal impedance of approximately 2 to 10 ohms.
Its published gain is +68dB, with a nominal input sensitivity of 0.3mV.
The most appropriate configuration depends on cartridge output voltage, internal impedance, recommended loading and the gain requirements of the complete audio system.
Chameleon Audio can assist with cartridge matching before purchase.
Three Gain Configurations for Analogue Playback
MM: +43dB gain for compatible moving magnet cartridges
MC Hi-Z: +65dB gain for appropriate moving coil cartridges
MC Lo-Z: +68dB gain for appropriate low-impedance moving coil cartridges
These options provide flexibility across different cartridge designs, while retaining the manufacturer’s carefully developed valve-based phono circuitry.
High-Quality Power Supply Design
Low-noise power supply operation is particularly important in phono preamplifiers because the electrical signals from a cartridge are extremely small.
Audio Hungary applies its transformer engineering expertise to the QUALITON Phono power supply, with attention to electrical filtering and the separation of sensitive amplification circuits from interference sources.
The internal layout has been optimised for compact construction without compromising the manufacturer’s stated approach to low-noise analogue signal handling.
Low Distortion and Wide Frequency Response
The QUALITON Phono has a nominal line output level of 700mV.
Audio Hungary specifies total harmonic distortion below 0.1% at 1kHz for the MM section.
The published signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 70dB with the tube cover installed, according to the stated measurement conditions.
The frequency response of the MM section is specified as 20Hz to 20kHz within -0.5dB.
These specifications reflect the manufacturer’s emphasis on accurate RIAA reproduction and controlled low-level signal amplification.
Elegant Single-Chassis Construction
The QUALITON Phono combines its specialist internal circuitry with a compact and understated chassis.
Measuring 24cm wide, 16cm high and 34cm deep, with a weight of approximately 8kg, the unit is designed to integrate naturally into a high-quality turntable system.
The protective tube cover helps reduce accidental contact with hot vacuum tubes during operation.
System Compatibility and Connections
The QUALITON Phono provides dedicated phono-level input connections for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, together with an unbalanced line-level output.
The recommended connection arrangement is:
Turntable with MM or MC Cartridge → QUALITON Phono Preamplifier → Line Input of Integrated Amplifier or Preamplifier
It is important to connect the phono stage to an appropriate line-level input, not to another phono input.
Correct grounding and careful positioning away from strong electromagnetic fields can help minimise unwanted noise and hum.
Why Choose the Qualiton Phono Preamplifier?
The Qualiton Phono Preamplifier combines vacuum tube amplification with integrated moving coil step-up transformers, providing an elegant solution for serious vinyl playback.
For audiophiles searching for a premium MM/MC phono stage, the Qualiton Phono Preamplifier offers flexible cartridge matching, carefully engineered analogue circuitry and the musical qualities associated with vacuum tube technology.
At Chameleon Audio, we can help you integrate the Qualiton Phono Preamplifier into your existing turntable system and select the appropriate MM or MC configuration.
The QUALITON Phono has also received attention from the specialist audio press.
Read the Chameleon Audio presentation of the Qualiton Phono Stage Review by Hxos Plus, which discusses the redesigned single-chassis phono preamplifier and its analogue performance.
Download the Qualiton Phono User Manual
For installation, cartridge compatibility and operating instructions, download the QUALITON Phono User Manual.
Why Buy from Chameleon Audio?
At Chameleon Audio, we specialise in high-end analogue audio, moving coil cartridges, phono preamplifiers and carefully matched turntable systems.
Free Worldwide Shipping with Full Transport Insurance
All brand-new products purchased from Chameleon Audio include FREE SHIPPING WITH FULL TRANSPORT INSURANCE.
Your new high-end audio equipment is carefully packed and insured throughout transportation.
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What is the Audio Hungary QUALITON Phono Preamplifier?
It is a high-end vacuum tube phono stage featuring four 6SL7GT valves and dedicated MM and MC cartridge connections.
Does the Qualiton Phono support moving coil cartridges?
Yes. It includes an integrated MC step-up transformer section designed for compatible low-output moving coil cartridges.
Do I need an external MC step-up transformer?
Not normally when using a compatible MC cartridge within the manufacturer’s specified matching ranges, because the QUALITON Phono includes MC step-up functionality.
What is the difference between MC Hi-Z and MC Lo-Z?
These are two matching configurations intended for cartridges with different internal impedances. The recommended ranges are 10–40Ω for MC Hi-Z and 2–10Ω for MC Lo-Z.
What is the MM gain of the Qualiton Phono?
The MM section provides a published gain of +43dB.
What is the MC gain?
The published gain is +65dB for MC Hi-Z and +68dB for MC Lo-Z.
Which vacuum tubes does it use?
The QUALITON Phono uses four 6SL7GT vacuum tubes.
Can I connect the Qualiton Phono directly to a power amplifier?
The unit provides a line-level output but is not specified as a volume-controlling line preamplifier. A suitable integrated amplifier or preamplifier with volume control is normally required.
Can I use it with an integrated amplifier?
Yes. Connect the phono stage’s line-level output to a compatible line input on the integrated amplifier.
Does it support every MC cartridge?
No. Matching depends on cartridge output, internal impedance and loading requirements. Compatibility should be checked before purchase.
Does the Qualiton Phono need an external power supply?
It is a powered vacuum tube phono preamplifier with its power supply incorporated into the product design.
How large is the Qualiton Phono?
Its published dimensions are 24 × 16 × 34cm, with a weight of approximately 8kg.
Where can I buy the Qualiton MM/MC Phono Preamplifier?
Chameleon Audio offers the QUALITON Phono with advice on cartridge compatibility, analogue system matching and international ordering.
The Audio Hungary QUALITON Phono Preamplifier MM/MC offers a sophisticated solution for vinyl enthusiasts seeking the flexibility of moving magnet and moving coil cartridge amplification in one carefully engineered vacuum tube component.
With four 6SL7GT tubes, integrated MC step-up transformers, carefully developed MM circuitry and a compact chassis, the QUALITON Phono forms a compelling foundation for a high-end analogue system.
Contact Chameleon Audio for cartridge matching, product availability, specialist analogue advice and international delivery.
Specifications
Name
Value
Nominal output level – Line
700 mV
Input sensitivity – Phono (MM)
5 mV, to nominal output level
Input sensitivity – Phono (MC Hi – Z)
0.4 mV, to nominal output level
Input sensitivity – Phono (MC Lo – Z)
0.3 mV, to nominal output level
Max. input signal – Phono (MM)
120 mV
Gain – Phono (MM)
+43 dB
Gain – Phono (MC Hi – Z)
+65 dB
Gain – Phono (MC Lo – Z)
+68 dB
Total harmonic distortion – Phono (MM)
0.1%, (f = 1 kHz)
Frequency response – Phono (MM)
20 Hz – 20 kHz, (-0.5 dB)
Input impedance – Phono (MM)
47 kOhm
Recommended MC cartridge internal impedance – Phono (MC Hi-Z)
10 – 40 Ohm
Recommended MC cartridge internal impedance – Phono (MC Lo-Z)
2 – 10 Ohm
Signal-to-noise ratio – Phono (MM)
70 dB (with tube cover)
Number of input ports
2 PHONO level input (PHONO MM, PHONO MC)
Number of output ports
1 unbalanced line level output (LINE)
Tubes required
4 x 6SL7GT
Weight
8 kg
Dimensions
W:24 x H:16 x L:34 cm
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