Rothwell Audio Signature One MC Phono Stage
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Features
| MC input | No |
|---|---|
| MM Input | No |
| Adjustable Gain | No |
| Brand Color | None |
| Adjustable Impedance | No |
| Warranty The length of time your product is protected by warranty | 2 Years |
| Product Type | Other |
Tech Specs
- Gain - 62 dB / 68 dB
- Input impedance (Low gain) - 117 ohms
- Input impedance (High gain) - 470 ohms
- Output impedance - 75 ohms
- Sensitivity for 500 mV o/p (Low gain) - 0.4 mV @ 1 kHz
- Sensitivity for 500 mV o/p (High gain) - 0.2 mV @ 1 kHz
- Headroom - >20 dB
- Signal/noise - >87 dB
- Power supply - Internal, linear regulated 24 volts DC
- Mains voltage - 120 VAC / 235 VAC
- Power consumption - 2 W
- Dimensions - 430 × 250 × 74 mm
- Weight - 4 kg
Description
The Rothwell Audio Signature One MC Phono Stage is a phono pre-amplifier dedicated to low output moving coil cartridges, designed to deliver the highest possible performance. Its transformer-coupled inputs handle the extremely low signal levels produced by these cartridges with exceptional precision.
Unlike transistors or op-amps, transformers provide superior noise performance, making them the ideal choice for audiophiles seeking the utmost detail and transparency. Despite their higher cost, transformers ensure that the delicate signal from a moving coil cartridge is preserved without added noise, allowing every nuance of the recording to be faithfully reproduced.
This approach ensures that quiet passages remain detailed, and the overall signal remains clear, providing a reference-level listening experience for demanding vinyl enthusiasts.
High-Quality Transformers from Lundahl
To achieve wide bandwidth and low distortion, the Signature One uses high-quality transformers supplied by Lundahl of Sweden. The cores are made from cobalt-based uncut amorphous strips, delivering high inductance to extend low-frequency response without requiring excessive wire turns.
This design reduces winding resistance and minimizes Johnson noise while keeping inter-winding capacitance low to extend high-frequency response and reduce ringing. The transformers also feature a specialized coil geometry that rejects interference from stray magnetic fields, reducing hum pickup.
These characteristics ensure that the sound remains open and transparent. The step-up ratios of 1:10 and 1:20 accommodate the majority of modern moving coil cartridges, providing flexibility while maintaining exceptional audio fidelity.
Discrete Class A Active Circuitry
Following the transformer-coupled inputs, the Signature One incorporates a discrete transistor active circuit, allowing elegant Class A operation. Class A circuitry is chosen over Class B or A/B push-pull configurations because it is completely free from crossover distortion.
While op-amps attempt to mitigate crossover distortion using negative feedback, Class A circuits avoid it entirely, producing a natural, fatigue-free sound. The first active gain stage is followed by passive RIAA equalization using multiple audiophile-grade polypropylene capacitors.
A second active gain stage and a Sziklai-configured output buffer provide low distortion and low output impedance, enabling the Signature One to drive any interconnect cable effectively while maintaining the integrity of the musical signal.
Linear Regulated Power Supply
The Signature One features a highly refined onboard linear regulated DC power supply, incorporating a toroidal mains transformer to minimize magnetic field radiation. Oversized reservoir capacitors with two stages of filtering and a low-noise discrete transistor regulator provide clean and stable power.
This meticulous design enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and allows low-level details to emerge clearly. The unit also includes an earth link/lift switch, enabling hum-free performance regardless of the turntable's grounding arrangement.
Attention to the power supply is critical because it forms the foundation from which the amplifier derives its output signal, ensuring exceptional dynamic range and musical precision.
UK Craftsmanship and Specifications
Designed and built in the United Kingdom, the Signature One is assembled in-house with rigorous quality control at every stage. Each unit undergoes thorough testing to ensure consistent performance and reliability.
The combination of careful manufacturing and high-quality components ensures that the pre-amplifier delivers exceptional sound reproduction. Its specifications include a gain of 62dB or 68dB, input impedance of 117 ohms at low gain and 470 ohms at high gain, output impedance of 75 ohms, and sensitivity of 0.4mV or 0.2mV at 500mV output.
The unit provides more than 20dB of headroom and a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 87dB. Dimensions are 430 x 250 x 74 mm, with a weight of 4 kg, making it a compact yet precise phono stage.