Circle Labs V1000: Phono preamplifier from Poland unveiled

Polish audio manufacturer High End Circle Labs has launched the V 1000 tube phono preamplifier, designed to accommodate both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. For MC cartridges, this phono preamplifier features a premium step-up transformer developed by Circle Labs in Poland.

The primary winding of the step-up transformer consists of 25 strands of braided wire, each insulated from the others by silk braiding. The secondary winding is constructed from high-purity copper wire. This transformer features a very low input resistance of 0.25 ohms to 22 ohms, effectively reducing signal loss from the connected pickup cartridge.

The output from the step-up transformer is sent to the preamplifier stage, where a moving magnet (MM) cartridge can be directly linked. Each channel features two tubes: ECC88 and 6922. The phono preamplifier circuit is designed based on the “dual mono” concept and operates without negative feedback. To minimize power supply interference, the power transformers are housed separately. The power supply for the phono preamplifier incorporates Mundorf polypropylene capacitors.

The Circle Labs V1000 phono preamplifier features two separate inputs, allowing for compatibility with both MM and MC cartridges. It is equipped with rotary controls on the front panel and micro switches on the rear, enabling versatile configuration for various cartridge types. Additionally, the unit offers both unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR outputs for seamless connection to an amplifier.

The Circle Labs V 1000 vacuum tube phono preamplifier is now available with a suggested retail price of €10,000