Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer For DS Audio Cartridges

$11,500.00
$11,500.00
Faceplate: Silver
Color Choice: Black
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Backert Labs

Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer for DS Audio Cartridges

Tube Optical-Cartridge Equalizer • Two DS Audio Cartridge Inputs • Two NOS 12AU7 Tubes • Selectable Gain • Balanced and Unbalanced Outputs • Three GreenForce Power Supplies • Made in Pennsylvania

Built to Order The Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer for DS Audio Cartridges is built to order. The typical lead time is approximately 10–14 business days before shipment.

Reference Tube Equalization Created Exclusively for DS Audio Optical Cartridges

The Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer for DS Audio Cartridges is a purpose-built analog component designed to reveal the speed, clarity and exceptionally low moving mass of DS Audio optical cartridges. Unlike a conventional phono preamplifier, it supplies the light-source power and specialized equalization required by the optical-cartridge system. Two independent RCA inputs allow two compatible cartridges or tonearms to remain connected, with convenient selection available from the front panel.

Backert Labs combines a tube-based audio circuit with three patented GreenForce power supplies to create a spacious, dynamic and naturally textured presentation. Separate left- and right-channel supplies power the dual-mono audio circuitry, while a third dedicated supply powers the cartridge’s photo detector. Each unit is built to order by hand in Pennsylvania, with a typical lead time of approximately 10–14 business days before shipment.

Highlights & Benefits

  • Designed for DS Audio Cartridges — Provides the specialized power and equalization required by compatible DS Audio optical cartridges.
  • Two Optical-Cartridge Inputs — Connect two DS Audio-equipped tonearms and switch between them directly from the front panel.
  • Tube-Based Signal Circuit — Two NOS 12AU7-type tubes contribute natural tonal color, dimensional imaging and expressive dynamics.
  • Three GreenForce Power Supplies — Separate supplies power the left audio channel, right audio channel and cartridge photo detector.
  • Flexible System Connectivity — Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs support a wide variety of premium line stages and integrated amplifiers.

Technology & Design

Dual-Mono GreenForce Audio Supplies — Independent GreenForce power supplies serve the left- and right-channel audio circuits. This dual-mono arrangement reduces interaction between channels and supports stable imaging, low noise and greater musical separation.

Dedicated Optical-Cartridge Supply — A third GreenForce supply is reserved exclusively for the photo detector inside the connected DS Audio cartridge. Keeping this supply separate from the audio stages helps prevent the optical system’s power requirements from interfering with the music signal.

Rhythm-Derived Tube Amplification — The Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer for DS Audio Cartridges incorporates tube-circuit technology developed for the company’s reference line-stage preamplifiers. Two automatically biased 12AU7 tubes operate under gentle conditions intended to support consistent performance and extended tube life.

Premium Mechanical Construction — The Optik Phono uses an American-machined aluminum chassis, a solid-brass circuit-board support panel and isolation feet designed to reduce unwanted mechanical vibration. Solid-silver wiring is used in key areas of the internal signal path.

FAQ — Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer

Is the Backert Labs Optik Phono built to order?

Yes. This product is built to order. The typical lead time is approximately 10–14 business days before shipment.

Can it be used with moving-magnet or moving-coil cartridges?

No. The Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer for DS Audio Cartridges is designed specifically for DS Audio optical cartridges. Conventional MM and MC cartridges require a traditional phono preamplifier.

Can two DS Audio cartridges be connected at the same time?

Yes. The two stereo RCA inputs allow two compatible DS Audio cartridges or tonearms to remain connected. The desired cartridge can be selected from the front panel.

Is a separate DS Audio equalizer required?

No. The Backert Labs Optik Phono provides the cartridge power and equalization required by compatible DS Audio optical cartridges, replacing the need for a separate DS Audio equalizer.

Why Buy From Us

  • Authorized Backert Labs Dealer
  • 5% Reward Points on Every Purchase
  • Price Match Guarantee
  • Expert DS Audio Cartridge Matching, Turntable Setup and System Integration Support

Backert Labs Optik Phono Specifications

Product Type
Tube equalizer and power supply for DS Audio optical cartridges
Model
Optik Phono 1.1
Availability
Built to order
Typical Lead Time
Approximately 10–14 business days before shipment
Cartridge Compatibility
DS Audio optical cartridges only
Cartridge Inputs
2 × stereo RCA input pairs
Input Selection
Front-panel Input 1 / Input 2 selector
Unused Input Management
The unselected cartridge’s light source is automatically deactivated
Gain Settings
High and low
Gain Selection
Front-panel selector
Circuit Type
Tube amplification circuit derived from Backert Labs line-stage technology
Tube Complement
2 × 12AU7 or compatible equivalent tubes
Tube Bias
Automatic continuous bias adjustment
Tube Access
Top-panel tube-access door
Audio Power Supplies
2 × patented GreenForce supplies in dual-mono configuration
Photo-Detector Supply
Separate patented GreenForce power supply
Balanced Output
1 × stereo XLR output pair
Unbalanced Output
1 × stereo RCA output pair
Mute
Front-panel mute control
Front-Panel Controls
Input selection, gain selection, mute and power
Internal Signal Wiring
Solid-silver wiring in key areas of the signal path
Circuit-Board Support
Solid unfinished brass bottom panel
Isolation Feet
IsoAcoustics GAIA feet
Chassis Construction
USA-machined aluminum chassis
Standard Body Finish
Black
Faceplate Finishes
Black or silver
Manufacturing
Designed and built by hand in Pennsylvania, USA
Quantity
Each
Brand
Backert Labs

What’s in the Box

  • 1 × Backert Labs Optik Phono Equalizer for DS Audio Cartridges
  • 2 × NOS 12AU7-Type Vacuum Tubes
  • 1 × Detachable AC Power Cable
  • 1 × Owner’s Documentation

Turntable, tonearm, DS Audio optical cartridge, line-stage preamplifier, integrated amplifier and interconnect cables are sold separately.

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