Trichord Research Diablo Phono Stage + NC PSU

Trichord Research Diablo Phono Stage + Never Connected PSU – Used

The Trichord Diablo Phono Stage is a high-performance British MM/MC phono preamplifier, offered here with the upgraded Never Connected Power Supply. This used combination delivers flexible cartridge matching, precision RIAA equalisation and advanced power supply engineering at a special price of €820.

High-End British MM/MC Phono Amplification with the Upgraded Never Connected External Power Supply.

The Trichord Research Diablo Phono Stage is a sophisticated British-designed phono preamplifier developed to retrieve musical information from vinyl records with exceptional precision, low noise and impressive dynamic expression.

Designed to accommodate a wide variety of Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges, the Diablo combines highly configurable gain and cartridge loading with carefully engineered RIAA equalisation and a sophisticated low-noise power supply architecture.

Chameleon Audio is pleased to offer this pre-owned Trichord Research Diablo complete with the upgraded Never Connected Power Supply (NCPSU).

The equipment is described as being in excellent cosmetic condition and fully functional.

Complete Diablo + Never Connected PSU Package: €820.

A Special Pre-Owned Analogue Opportunity

This offer includes the Trichord Research Diablo phono amplifier together with its dedicated external Never Connected power supply.

The Never Connected PSU is an important part of this combination, providing an advanced power supply architecture specifically developed to minimise the influence of mains-related interference on sensitive audio circuits.

For vinyl enthusiasts considering a high-performance MM/MC phono stage, the complete Diablo and NCPSU combination offers greater appeal than a basic phono preamplifier supplied with a conventional power adaptor.

Available from Chameleon Audio at an asking price of €820, this is an attractive pre-owned option for upgrading a serious analogue playback system.

Trichord Research: British Analogue Engineering

Trichord Research is a British audio manufacturer known for its specialist work in analogue reproduction, precision phono amplification and advanced external power supply design.

The company’s phono stages have been developed around the challenges of amplifying the extremely low-level signals generated by phono cartridges.

These signals require carefully managed gain, accurate equalisation and protection from unwanted electrical interference.

With products such as the Dino and Diablo, Trichord Research has established a distinctive approach to combining practical cartridge adjustability with carefully engineered audio circuitry.

The Diablo occupies the upper end of the company’s traditional phono stage range.

Designed for Moving Magnet and Moving Coil Cartridges

The Diablo is designed to work with both MM and MC phono cartridges, offering selectable gain and loading settings to accommodate different cartridge requirements.

Moving Magnet cartridges generally produce higher output voltages, while many Moving Coil designs generate considerably smaller signals.

The phono preamplifier must provide suitable amplification without introducing excessive noise or sacrificing the cartridge’s dynamic performance.

Trichord Research addresses these requirements through adjustable input and gain configurations.

This flexibility makes the Diablo a versatile choice for analogue enthusiasts using different cartridge technologies.

Adjustable Cartridge Loading and Gain

One of the Diablo’s most useful features is its user-adjustable input configuration.

Groups of DIP switches on the underside of the phono stage allow the user to select gain and cartridge loading options.

These adjustments enable the Diablo to accommodate a variety of cartridge output levels and electrical characteristics.

The ability to optimise phono loading is particularly valuable when using low-output Moving Coil cartridges.

Correct loading can influence the cartridge’s frequency response and its interaction with the phono preamplifier.

Gain must also be selected appropriately to achieve sufficient playback level without unnecessarily compromising overload margin or noise performance.

Trichord Research provides the manufacturer’s switch-setting guidance on its official product page.

Always turn off the equipment and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before changing the DIP-switch configuration.

High Gain for Low-Output MC Cartridges

Independent measurements published by Hi-Fi World documented several Diablo gain configurations suitable for both MM and MC applications.

The reviewed unit provided nominal MM gain settings in the region of 48dB and 52dB, alongside higher MC settings around 63dB, 70dB and 75dB.

These selectable gain levels make it possible to consider a broad range of cartridges, including low-output MC models that require substantial amplification.

The most appropriate configuration depends on cartridge output, phono loading requirements, the following amplifier’s sensitivity and the desired listening level.

Individual cartridge compatibility should always be checked rather than assumed from gain specifications alone.

The Importance of Phono Stage Power Supply Quality

A phono stage amplifies signals measured in millivolts or even microvolts.

At these signal levels, power supply noise and interference can become particularly important.

A well-designed supply must provide stable electrical operating conditions while minimising unwanted noise that could otherwise be amplified along with the music.

For this reason, Trichord Research developed upgraded external power supply options for its analogue electronics.

In the case of the Diablo, the Never Connected PSU is a particularly significant companion component.

Never Connected Power Supply: A Major Part of This Package

This used Diablo is supplied with the Trichord Research Never Connected Power Supply (NCPSU).

The NCPSU uses a specialised energy-storage and switching architecture designed to reduce the direct transmission of mains-related disturbances to the phono amplifier’s sensitive circuitry.

Its operating principle involves energy-storage capacitors and electronically controlled switching, allowing the supply to deliver energy from stored charge while managing the connection to its charging circuit.

This is the technological idea behind the distinctive Never Connected name.

By reducing unwanted interaction with mains power disturbances, the design aims to establish more favourable electrical conditions for low-level analogue signal amplification.

This can contribute to the potential for reduced background noise and improved retrieval of low-level musical detail.

Actual audible results will depend on the system, electrical environment and connected equipment.

Separate Power Supply Chassis

Keeping the power supply in an external enclosure allows the designer to position the mains transformer and other power-related components away from the phono amplifier’s sensitive signal circuitry.

This physical separation is particularly beneficial in components dealing with very low signal voltages.

The dedicated PSU also provides a more substantial power supply solution than the basic in-line transformer option available for the Diablo.

For the buyer of this pre-owned package, both the phono stage and the upgraded external PSU are included in the asking price.

Four Low-Noise Voltage Regulators

The Diablo incorporates four high-speed, low-noise voltage regulators as part of its internal power management.

According to Trichord Research, this arrangement creates an effectively dual-mono architecture within the single phono-stage chassis.

The regulation scheme was developed to provide clean and stable electrical operating conditions for the amplifier stages.

By controlling supply noise and interaction between circuit sections, the architecture supports the Diablo’s low-noise design objectives.

Effectively Dual-Mono Internal Design

Although housed in a single compact enclosure, the Diablo’s internal regulation and signal architecture aim to maintain a high degree of separation between the left and right audio channels.

Trichord Research describes the use of four regulated supply circuits as effectively creating a dual-mono design.

This does not mean the amplifier consists of two completely separate phono stages in independent cabinets.

Instead, it reflects the manufacturer’s approach to electrical channel separation within a shared chassis.

High-Performance Bipolar and JFET Operational Amplifiers

The Diablo uses carefully selected audio-grade bipolar and JFET operational amplifier devices from recognised semiconductor manufacturers.

Trichord Research identifies Analog Devices and Linear Technology as suppliers of the high-performance devices used in the circuit.

The circuit is designed to provide very low noise, suitable gain and accurate handling of delicate cartridge signals.

High-quality passive components, including carefully specified resistors and low-impedance capacitors, also form part of the design.

The signal architecture is non-inverting.

Precision RIAA Equalisation

Vinyl playback requires accurate equalisation to reverse the frequency-response characteristic applied during record mastering.

This standardised process is known as RIAA equalisation.

Without accurate RIAA correction, a record would not reproduce the intended tonal balance.

Trichord Research uses a combination of passive and active equalisation stages in the Diablo.

The equalisation network incorporates close-tolerance audiophile-grade resistors and capacitors chosen to maintain the intended response characteristics.

Accurate RIAA equalisation is essential to obtaining natural tonal balance and convincing musical reproduction from vinyl records.

Low Noise and Musical Detail

One of the fundamental challenges of high-performance phono amplification is preserving musical information that may be only a tiny fraction of a millivolt at the cartridge output.

The Diablo addresses this challenge through its low-noise amplification architecture, carefully managed power supplies and configurable cartridge input settings.

The combination of the Diablo and Never Connected PSU is designed to provide the low-level transparency required for serious analogue listening.

In a suitably matched system, these engineering decisions can help preserve fine detail, subtle ambient information, stereo imaging and musical dynamics.

Independent Review: Hi-Fi World

The Trichord Diablo with Never Connected PSU was included in a comparative phono stage review published by Hi-Fi World in July 2009.

The review covered the equipment’s construction, flexible cartridge settings and listening performance, accompanied by laboratory measurements.

The publication highlighted the Diablo’s fine detail retrieval, stereo imaging and precise musical timing.

Its measurements documented low noise, low distortion and substantial separation between channels.

The review also observed that careful system matching is important and identified a slight tendency towards elevated high-frequency response under its test conditions.

The full review provides valuable independent context for the Diablo’s performance and engineering.

Read Hi-Fi World, July 2009: Trichord Diablo NC Review (PDF)

Independent Laboratory Measurements

During its published evaluation of the Diablo NC, Hi-Fi World reported the following measurements for its review sample:

• Frequency response (MC): approximately 10Hz–32kHz
• Channel separation: approximately 78dB MM and 68dB MC
• Equivalent input noise: approximately 0.08µV MM and 0.06µV MC
• Measured distortion: approximately 0.002%
• Output overload capability: approximately 9.3V

These figures are independent measurements of a review sample, not individually verified measurements of the second-hand Diablo offered here.

They illustrate the technical performance achieved by the design under the magazine’s laboratory conditions.

Cartridge Compatibility and System Matching

The Diablo’s adjustable gain and loading arrangements allow it to be considered with a broad selection of Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges.

Potential applications include turntables equipped with medium-output MM cartridges, higher-output MC designs and numerous low-output MC cartridges.

For example, models from manufacturers such as Ortofon, Denon, Hana and other high-end cartridge specialists may be compatible when their particular electrical requirements are properly matched.

Compatibility must be determined by the exact cartridge specification rather than brand name alone.

The phono stage can be connected to a suitable line-level input of an integrated amplifier or preamplifier.

It should not be connected to another active phono input without accounting for the additional equalisation and gain.

Build Quality and Compact Aluminium Construction

The Diablo uses a non-ferrous aluminium enclosure.

Trichord Research selected this material partly to minimise unwanted eddy-current effects associated with ferrous chassis materials.

The compact design allows installation in a high-end analogue system without requiring a large amount of shelf space.

The separate NCPSU should be positioned with appropriate ventilation and cable routing in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Condition of This Pre-Owned Diablo

This particular Trichord Research Diablo is offered by Chameleon Audio as a used item in excellent cosmetic and fully functional condition.

The external Never Connected Power Supply is included.

The listing also identifies a manual, mains lead and PSU connection cable among the supplied accessories.

As this is a second-hand product, buyers are welcome to contact Chameleon Audio to confirm the exact accessories, cosmetic condition, power-supply version and available documentation before ordering.

What Is Included?

• Trichord Research Diablo MM/MC Phono Stage
• Trichord Research Never Connected External Power Supply
• PSU connection cable
• Mains power cable
• Operating manual, according to the existing listing

Please confirm the final supplied accessories before purchase.

Why Buy This Diablo + NCPSU Combination?

A quality phono stage is one of the most important components in a serious vinyl playback system.

The electrical signals produced by a cartridge must be amplified accurately and quietly before reaching the rest of the audio system.

The Trichord Diablo offers a strong engineering foundation through adjustable MM/MC compatibility, precision RIAA equalisation, low-noise devices and carefully designed internal regulation.

Its Never Connected external power supply provides an additional layer of power-supply engineering aimed specifically at sensitive analogue signals.

For listeners looking to upgrade a modest integrated phono stage or replace an entry-level external phono preamplifier, this complete combination is well worth considering.

Key Features

• Trichord Research Diablo high-end phono preamplifier
• Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridge compatibility
• Complete package with Never Connected PSU
• Advanced energy-storage and switching power supply technology
• Selectable gain and cartridge loading
• DIP-switch adjustment on the underside of the Diablo
• Effectively dual-mono internal supply architecture
• Four low-noise, high-speed voltage regulators
• Audio-grade bipolar and JFET operational amplifiers
• Non-inverting analogue signal circuit
• Precision passive and active RIAA equalisation network
• Close-tolerance resistors and carefully selected capacitors
• Non-ferrous aluminium enclosure
• Separate external power supply chassis
• Reviewed and measured by Hi-Fi World
• Designed and manufactured by Trichord Research in the UK
• Used, excellent reported condition
• Fully functional according to the Chameleon Audio listing
• Complete pre-owned package price: €820

Technical Specifications

Product design information is based on Trichord Research documentation. Independent laboratory figures refer to a published review sample and are not measurements of this individual used unit. Exact supplied accessories and PSU version should be confirmed before purchase.

Official Trichord Research Information

Trichord Research Diablo Official Product Information and DIP-Switch Settings

Trichord Diablo Phono Stage – Sound Quality and Performance

The Trichord Diablo Phono Stage is designed for serious vinyl enthusiasts seeking precise musical reproduction, low background noise and outstanding analogue performance. Its sophisticated MM/MC circuitry allows the listener to enjoy a wide range of high-quality moving magnet and moving coil cartridges.

One of the main advantages of the Trichord Diablo Phono Stage is its compatibility with the upgraded Never Connected Power Supply. This dedicated external PSU is designed to reduce power supply interference and provide cleaner operating conditions for sensitive analogue signals.

Trichord Diablo Phono Stage – MM/MC Cartridge Matching

The Trichord Diablo Phono Stage offers adjustable gain and cartridge loading, making it a versatile choice for analogue enthusiasts. Its flexible configuration supports a wide variety of compatible MM and MC cartridges, including many low-output moving coil designs.

When correctly matched with a suitable turntable and cartridge, the Trichord Diablo Phono Stage can become an important part of a revealing high-end analogue system.

Explore More High-End Analogue Equipment at Chameleon Audio

Discover our Phasemation EA-200 Phono Stage for another approach to high-quality analogue amplification.

Explore our Canor Audio Asterion V3 Phono Preamplifier, or browse the Chameleon Audio Second-Hand & Ex-Demo Collection for more available high-end audio components.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Trichord Diablo suitable for MM and MC cartridges?

Yes. The Diablo supports both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, with adjustable gain and loading settings.

Does this offer include the Never Connected power supply?

Yes. This particular used package includes the Trichord Research Never Connected external power supply.

What is the difference between the standard power supply and the NCPSU?

The basic configuration uses a conventional external transformer supply. The Never Connected PSU employs a specialised stored-energy and switching design intended to reduce the transfer of mains-related interference to the phono circuitry.

Can the Diablo work with low-output moving coil cartridges?

Yes. Its higher gain settings allow it to accommodate many low-output MC cartridges, provided their loading and output requirements are compatible.

How do I change the cartridge settings?

Gain and loading are selected using DIP switches on the underside of the unit. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions and switch off the equipment before making adjustments.

Is the Diablo a true dual-mono design?

Trichord Research describes it as effectively dual-mono, owing to its four separate low-noise voltage regulators and internal circuit architecture.

Does the Diablo use discrete Class A gain stages?

The manufacturer identifies high-performance bipolar and JFET operational amplifiers in the signal circuit. It should not be described as a fully discrete Class A design.

What kind of RIAA equalisation does it use?

It employs a combination of passive and active RIAA equalisation circuitry with carefully selected precision components.

Are independent reviews available?

Yes. Hi-Fi World reviewed and measured the Diablo with Never Connected PSU in its July 2009 issue.

What condition is this example in?

The amplifier and external power supply are offered in excellent reported condition and described as fully functional.

What exactly is included in the sale?

The package includes the Diablo phono stage and the Never Connected PSU. The existing listing also specifies a PSU connection cable, mains cable and manual; please confirm the final accessories before ordering.

What is the price for both components?

The asking price is €820 for the complete used package.

Does this phono stage connect to a standard amplifier?

Yes. The Diablo provides phono equalisation and amplification so that a compatible line-level input of an integrated amplifier or preamplifier can be used.

Can Chameleon Audio ship internationally?

Please contact Chameleon Audio for destination-specific shipping availability, costs, packaging and insurance arrangements.

Why Choose Trichord Diablo + Never Connected PSU?

The Trichord Research Diablo combines carefully engineered analogue signal amplification with flexible MM/MC cartridge compatibility and precision RIAA equalisation.

The addition of the Never Connected PSU makes this particular used package especially appealing to vinyl enthusiasts looking for an advanced external phono stage.

With both components available for €820, the package offers an interesting opportunity to acquire a well-regarded British analogue combination at a pre-owned price.

Precision British Analogue Engineering. Advanced Power Supply Technology. A Complete High-End Phono Solution.

Availability and International Orders

This pre-owned Trichord Diablo + Never Connected PSU package is offered by Chameleon Audio in Greece for €820, subject to prior sale.

Contact Chameleon Audio for detailed photographs, cartridge compatibility advice and international shipping arrangements.