The M6x ViNYL

is a highly performant and incredibly precise MM/MC phono cartridge amplifier, housed in a beautifully designed and meticulously crafted casing. Our aim was to create a phono stage that transcends practical limitations. It’s engineered in such a way that ensures the input stage won’t overload, and it can handle any practical output driving requirements during regular use, whether in single-ended or balanced mode. This versatile unit features three inputs, each of which can be individually configured for MM or MC cartridges and customized loading settings, with the advantage of retaining its specific configuration for future use. It delivers state-of-the-art technical performance and sonic excellence at a remarkably competitive price, embodying the true essence of high-end audio.

Design Philosophy

In transitioning from the M6 ViNYL to the M6x ViNYL, we’ve embraced an entirely discrete circuitry, resulting in improved technical measurements and enhanced sound quality. It boasts one balanced input and output, along with two single-ended inputs and one single-ended output, making it a seamless addition to any vinyl hi-fi system. The key question here is: what sets discrete circuits apart?

The Benefits of Discrete Circuits

Discrete circuits are constructed using individual electronic components, which are distinct and separate devices, including both “passive” components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors, as well as “active” components, which, in our case, are transistors. This differs from integrated circuits, which incorporate operational amplifiers (Op-Amps) within the signal path. In our industry, specialized Op-Amps tailored for audio applications are employed to produce compact and efficient electronics, saving design engineers time. However, countless hours of listening tests and years of experience have shown us that even the best Op-Amps tend not to exhibit the same neutrality, naturalness, dynamics, or vibrancy—all qualities found in the Musical Fidelity “sound.” For this reason, we’re rekindling our passion for traditional discrete designs. While standard phono pre-amplifiers with integrated circuits typically feature a few dozen to a few hundred components, discrete designs may employ hundreds or even thousands of components by comparison. This extensive design process, in our view, results in the best sound quality for your investment. The unit boasts three separate and independently selectable cartridge inputs, enabling you to choose between three different turntables or accommodate multiple tonearm configurations if needed. Selectable gain settings are provided to accommodate different cartridge sensitivities and suit various equipment setups. Cartridge type and loading configurations can be easily adjusted using front selector buttons to optimize cartridge performance.

Clearing the Path for Pure Music

The ultimate goal of any electronic component, particularly in the realm of audio, is to go unnoticed—to become inconspicuous. In essence, it should fade into the background, allowing you to completely forget its presence. By these criteria, the M6x ViNYL is nearly flawless. It operates with virtually no audible noise, minimal distortion, and offers overload protection on both input and output, all while providing precise cartridge loading. Its sole purpose is to serve the music, conveying the artists’ intentions, emotions, and passion directly to your ears and heart.

The M6 Vinyl Highlights

• Precise and customizable loading options for MM and MC cartridges
• Balanced input and output
• Fully discrete circuit board design

MM input:

Frequency response: RIAA or RIAA/IEC (selectable) ±0.2dB
Input sensitivity: 2.5mV in for 300mV out (at 1 kHz)
Input impedance: 47KΩ
Input capacitance: 50-400pF selectable
THD at 1 kHz: <0.01%
Overload margin: 31dB
Signal to noise ratio: >90dB “A”-wtd

MC input

Frequency response: RIAA or RIAA/IEC (selectable) ±0.2dB
Input sensitivity: 250μV in for 300mV out (at 1 kHz)
Input impedance: 25Ω to 1K2Ω selectable
Input capacitance: 470pF fixed
THD at 1 kHz: <0.01%
Overload margin: 31dB
Signal to noise ratio: >88dB “A”-wtd

Outputs (RCA/XLR)

1 pair RCA (phono): left and right 300mV nom 10V max
1 paiir XLR (balanced): left and right 600mV nom 20V max

Power requirement

Mains voltages: 230V/115V Internally set or 100V optional. AC 50/60Hz
Consumption: 20 Watts maximum. <0.5W in standby (orange LED on)

Weight

Unit only, unboxed: 5.5 kg
In shipping carton & inc. accessories: 11 kg

Unit dimensions

Wide: 440 mm
High, including feet: 100 mm
Deep (front to back) including terminals: 385 mm

Standard accessories

Mains lead: 10 Amp IEC