Audio Alchemy PPA-1 - MC/MM Phono Stage Pre-Amp

Your chance to own what Micheal Fremer described as 'among a handful of the best under $2000 phono preamps available today'

Excellent, Like New Condition Audio Alchemy PPA-1 phono pre-amp.  

The PPA-1 uses all-analog, discrete FET gain and EQ stages to transform the microscopic grooves in vinyl records into stunningly lifelike music. It includes all the features that serious vinyl enthusiasts demand, such as continuously-variable input loading, MC/MM gain switching and XLR and RCA outputs. It can also be upgraded by adding the PS-5 power supply, which can simultaneously power the PPA-1 and one other Alchemy component, such as the DDP-1 digital preamp.

Magical analog musicality

In our view, analog signals from vinyl records are already perfect when they leave the phono cartridge; all they need is to be handled with the utmost care in their path to the preamp. That’s why we use all-discrete, ultra-low-noise FET circuits for the PPA-1’s RIAA EQ and gain stages, with no integrated circuits in the signal path. It’s also why we provide an easy upgrade path. Just replace the supplied power supply with the PS-5, which offers superior filtration, tighter voltage regulation, lower noise and greater energy storage.

Transforms to suit any system

Serious vinyl enthusiasts need more than just the basic options, so we give them what they need. Load impedance is independently, continuously adjustable for both inputs, so optimal performance can be achieved with any cartridge and you’re not locked into specific settings. Either input can be set for MC or MM gain, and balanced XLR outputs are provided in addition to single-ended RCA outputs.

Key features

• Fully discrete, all-analog FET design with no ICs in signal path


• Selectable MM or MC gain


• Two single-ended RCA inputs with continuously adjustable loading


• Balanced XLR and single-ended RCA outputs