Atma-Sphere introduced the Mk 3.3 versions of their products at RMAF a few weeks ago. The MP-1 preamplifier is among them and has captured attention since the upgrades are substantial. The tube complement changed (fewer 6SN7GTs and one more 12AT7 per channel), and the phono section has on the order of 6 dB more gain. On the Atma-Sphere product page it says, "The phono section of the new preamp has more gain and is significantly lower noise than any prior version. In fact it's so quiet that the only way we could achieve the same numbers before was with a Low Output Moving Coil step-up transformer. There is so much more output that the phono is usually at about the same level as many digital sources. The line section is now lower distortion and also has a new shunt-style Gain Trim system that allows for greater control of the gain of the line stage, so high output digital sources are no longer an issue."
Ralph Karsten was showing how with the phono input selected the volume could be turned up to the point the amplifier(s) would clip if the stylus were dropped, yet noise was inaudible. That's a mind boggling improvement.
I anticipate getting my upgraded demo unit back by this weekend and really look forward to it.
Here is a photo of the new MP-1 version control unit. This one (not mine) has the remote volume control option and a V-Cap option. Click on the picture below for the full size image.
Ralph Karsten was showing how with the phono input selected the volume could be turned up to the point the amplifier(s) would clip if the stylus were dropped, yet noise was inaudible. That's a mind boggling improvement.
I anticipate getting my upgraded demo unit back by this weekend and really look forward to it.
Here is a photo of the new MP-1 version control unit. This one (not mine) has the remote volume control option and a V-Cap option. Click on the picture below for the full size image.