YBA manufactures its own MC transformer. Moving coils are known for their dynamic qualities, definition, wide bandwidth, coupled with great realism of reproduction. These qualities are attributable to the same principle of operation of moving coils that make them ideal generators. This explains their continued success with demanding users. Read Yves-Bernard’s philosophy on phono stages and an explanation behind his design of the Passion PH150. But their operation is very critical and depends mainly on the charging impedance and adapter, the characteristics greatly influence the electrical behaviour of the cartridge and therefore the quality of the sound reproduced. The PH150 caters for MM, low output MC and high output MC cartridges. You will note that the selector control on the front panel of the PH150 has only two options – MM or MC – whereas there are three inputs on the rear panel. The circuitry has been designed so that it will automatically sense which type of moving coil cartridge is being used and settings will adjust accordingly. This is in keeping with YBA’s philosophy to avoid any unnecessary switching on the signal path. It is strongly advised never to connect MM and MC cartridges at the same time as there will be a possibility with the high amplification factor that some noise could occur at the output stage. The power supply of the PH150 is separated from the main circuitry. As amplification in phono pre-amplifiers is high, separating the power supply gives a dramatic improvement to performance. However rather than provide two separate boxes, we have chosen to separate the power supply within the one chassis. This is evident from the rear panel image and it allows the opportunity to use the standard style of Passion casework and front panel design features. Specs Product type Phono Preamplifier Moving Magnet (MM) Input impedance 47 kOhm 45dB Gain Moving Coil (MC) Input impedance 2-100 Ohm 65 dB Gain High Output Moving Coil (MC) Input impedance 47 kOhm 50dB Gain SNR 90dB (A weighted @ 40dB input gain) THD <0.005% RIAA accuracy Within 0.3dB/20Hz – 20kHz Outputs 1 RCA 1 Balanced Inputs 2 RCA Analog Signal Inputs Display OLED Display Brightness Adjustable from remote (lower brightness = better sound) Power Supply Linear power supply with high performance transformer 200VA Color / Finish Natural aluminium Dimensions (w x d x h) 430 x 400 x 118mm Weight 11.5 kg
