Reference Tube Phono Performance for Moving-Magnet and Moving-Coil Cartridges
The Backert Labs Rhumba XPhono 1.1 Tube Phono Preamplifier is designed to uncover the musical energy, tonal color and dimensional realism preserved in vinyl records. Separate moving-magnet and moving-coil inputs accommodate a wide range of cartridges, while front-panel switching provides convenient access to two gain settings for each cartridge type. Its pure Class A amplification circuit uses four Gold Lion gold-pin 12AT7 tubes and operates without global or local negative feedback.
Backert Labs combines its patented GreenForce power-supply technology with separate dedicated power supplies for the phono circuit’s individual gain stages. Fifteen moving-coil loading options allow the phono stage to be matched to different cartridge requirements, while balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs support a variety of high-performance audio systems. 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
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Separate MM and MC Inputs — Dedicated RCA input pairs support moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges without requiring internal input rewiring.
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Four Selectable Gain Levels — Front-panel switching provides 41dB or 47dB of moving-magnet gain and 61dB or 67dB of moving-coil gain.
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Fifteen MC Loading Options — Supplied loading plugs allow the moving-coil input to be tailored to the electrical requirements of a compatible cartridge.
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Balanced and Unbalanced Outputs — XLR and RCA connections provide flexible integration with line-stage preamplifiers, integrated amplifiers and other high-end audio components.
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Tube-Friendly Ownership — Automatic tube biasing, gentle operating conditions and a removable top access door simplify tube replacement and support long service life.
Technology & Design
Separate GreenForce Power Supplies — A phono preamplifier requires multiple amplification stages to raise a cartridge’s low-level signal to a usable line-level output. The Rhumba XPhono provides a dedicated GreenForce power supply for each active gain stage rather than requiring both stages to draw from one shared supply.
Pure Class A Tube Amplification — The Backert Labs Rhumba XPhono 1.1 Tube Phono Preamplifier incorporates technology derived from the company’s acclaimed tube line stages. Four 12AT7 tubes provide active amplification without global or local negative feedback.
Passive Moving-Coil Step-Up Stage — Moving-coil signals receive additional gain through a passive step-up transformer before reaching the active tube amplification stages. This arrangement provides the additional gain needed by low-output MC cartridges without adding another powered gain circuit.
Flexible Cartridge Matching — Fifteen MC loading choices are selected using supplied rear-panel RCA loading plugs. Separate chassis-ground and power-supply-ground connections allow the quieter grounding arrangement to be selected for the connected turntable and audio system.
FAQ — Backert Labs Rhumba XPhono 1.1 Tube Phono Preamplifier
Is the Rhumba XPhono 1.1 built to order?
Yes. This product is built to order, and the typical lead time is approximately 10–14 business days before shipment. Actual production time may vary depending on current demand, cartridge configuration, finish selection and parts availability.
Does it support both moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges?
Yes. The Backert Labs Rhumba XPhono 1.1 Tube Phono Preamplifier provides separate RCA inputs for moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges, with cartridge type and gain selected from the front panel.
How is moving-coil cartridge loading adjusted?
The moving-coil input provides 15 loading options. The desired load is applied by installing the appropriate supplied RCA loading plugs into the designated rear-panel connections.
Can two turntables or tonearms be connected?
The separate MM and MC inputs can accommodate two compatible cartridge sources. A second moving-coil cartridge may also be used through a suitable external step-up transformer connected to the moving-magnet input.
Why Buy From Us
- Authorized Backert Labs Dealer
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- Expert Cartridge Matching, Loading Configuration and Turntable Setup Support
