After the 2016 AAA show in Krefeld Michael Fehlauer, CEO of audiospecials approached me, asking if I might improve a existing prototype of a phono-stage.

He felt uneasy about the development, circumstances and performance of the device. He was right on target. I hardly ever saw a PCB-layout worse than that.

I also mentioned my doubts about the possible sonic qualities of that circuit topology. Since he had spent considerable effort already and didn´t want to give up on the circuit easily, he commissioned me to only create a new PCB-layout.

While the new PCB layout alone resulted in an almost 20dB(!) improvement of the THD+N figures, the sonic impression remained mediocre at best.

So we returned to the idea of a completely different new circuit and also modified the concept for greater flexibility and more features.

The features list:

- two pluggable input stage modules for MM and MC cartridges, so that the user may choose between any combination of the two.

- MM and MC modules of same circuit topology, differing only in gain and input-load settings. The user can truely test between MM and MC cartridges ... the sonic fingerprint of the Phono-amplification doesn´t influence the outcome.

- unbalanced and optional balanced inputs.

- gain and input-loading switchable independent for each input.

- unbalanced and transformer-coupled balanced outputs

- `Recompizer´, stepless control means to improve non-optimal recorded discs.

- configurable for RIAA/IEC or RIAA-Neumann equalization

- optional volume- and IR-remote control.

- external Power supply, capable to supply for two Phonolabs at the same

The Phonolab was presented first in the AAA-magazine (#02/2017) and made its first public appearance at the AAA-show 2017 in Krefeld. Shortly after it was reviewed by Fidelity magazine (#36, 02/2018). In the meantime first comments appeared in audio-forums. Almost all statements praised the performance, appearance and easy handling of the Phonolab.

Fidelity magazine rewarded the Phonolab as "Winner 2018" in the category ´Analog - Phono-Preamplifiers - Superior´ (cost no object) at the Munic HighEnd show 2018.

audiospecials and I are certainly proud as it is very unusual for a start-up to get so positive reviews in magazines, let alone to receive a award in a top-notch category.

The Phonolab is reviewed again in the actual issue 05/2019 of Image HiFi magazine and gets a very warm recommendation.

Image HiFi reviewed in their new issue 01/2022 the Phonolab Pro equipped with the new SUT-MM input board.

The SUT-MM is a input card featuring a set of input impedances specialized for connection of MC pickups via SUT (StepUpTransformer) to the MM input.

The review is in german language only and the pdf will soon be added to the Phonolab-de section.

The reviews on the german site are in german language. As of today I haven´t translated them into english ... sorry.