Dual monaural fully balanced MM/MC phono stage • Differential amplification circuit with NF-type RIAA equalization • Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs/outputs • Selectable Decca and Columbia EQ curves • Front-panel cartridge impedance/capacitance measurement meter • Subsonic filter and demagnetizing DEMAG function • A4-sized aluminum chassis with pinpoint isolation feet
The TEAC PE-505 Fully Balanced Phono Pre-Amplifier brings reference-level vinyl mastering equalization and signal purity into TEAC’s compact 505 Series form factor. Engineered from input to output with a dual-monaural, fully balanced differential amplification circuit, it isolates the delicate micro-volt output of Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges from external noise and common-mode electromagnetic interference. Along with standard high-precision RIAA equalization, the PE-505 features historic Decca and Columbia EQ curves for authentic playback of pre-1955 monaural LPs. Outfitted with a front-panel analog meter that measures cartridge load impedance and load capacitance in real time, a built-in cartridge demagnetizer (DEMAG), and selectable load settings, the PE-505 provides the serious analog enthusiast with meticulous control and quiet, transparent signal reproduction.
Key Features & Innovations
Fully balanced dual-monaural circuit architecture — completely isolated left and right differential amplification stages suppress common-mode ground noise and hum, achieving exceptional signal-to-noise performance and wide channel separation.
High-precision NF-type RIAA equalization — newly developed negative-feedback (NF) equalization circuit delivers an ultra-tight RIAA deviation of less than ±0.05 dB, ensuring linear, uncolored tonal balance across the audible spectrum.
Switchable monaural Decca & Columbia EQ curves — dedicated equalization curves accommodate vintage mono pressings issued prior to the standardization of the RIAA curve in 1955, bringing historical recordings to life with correct tonal balance.
Front-panel load measurement meter — illuminated analog meter allows users to measure cartridge DC resistance and load capacitance directly at the press of a button, ensuring precise matching.
Built-in cartridge demagnetizer (DEMAG) — demagnetizing circuit clears accumulated magnetic saturation from magnetized MC cartridge cores and step-up transformers in approximately 30 seconds.
Flexible impedance & capacitance loading — rotary controls offer multiple load resistance settings for MC cartridges (10, 22, 47, 100, 220, 470, 1k Ohms) and capacitance settings for MM cartridges (0, 100, 220, 330 pF).
Subsonic filter & gain boost — switchable 17 Hz (-24 dB/oct) subsonic filter eliminates power-wasting low-frequency woofer pumping caused by warped records, while a +12 dB gain boost switch accommodates ultra-low-output cartridges.
Can I connect a turntable with balanced XLR outputs to the PE-505?
Yes. The TEAC PE-505 features dedicated balanced XLR stereo phono inputs in addition to standard unbalanced gold-plated RCA inputs. Connecting a turntable wired with balanced tonearm cabling takes full advantage of the unit's differential circuitry to eliminate common-mode noise, RF interference, and hum.
What does the cartridge demagnetizing (DEMAG) function do?
Over time, the iron armatures and magnetic poles of Moving Coil (MC) cartridges and step-up transformers can develop residual stray magnetization, which muddies high frequencies and compresses dynamic contrast. Engaging the PE-505's DEMAG mode while playing a record sends a demagnetizing signal that clears the core within about 30 seconds, restoring transparency and transient speed.
Why are Decca and Columbia EQ curves included?
Prior to the international adoption of the RIAA standard curve in the mid-1950s, major record labels cut vinyl and shellac discs using their own proprietary equalization curves. The PE-505 allows you to switch between standard RIAA, Decca, and Columbia curves, ensuring historically accurate frequency reproduction when playing vintage mono pressings.
How does the load measurement function operate?
By turning the selector to "MEASURE" and pressing the load button, the PE-505 sends a harmless, minute test signal through the connected phono cable to gauge the cartridge's total resistance or capacitance, displaying the reading directly on the front-panel needle meter to help you dial in the exact recommended settings.
Why Buy From Us
Authorized TEAC reference dealer offering 100% genuine factory-sealed components with full manufacturer warranty coverage
Expert technical consultation on tonearm wiring, balanced phono interconnects, and cartridge impedance/capacitance matching
Dedicated concierge customer service for audiophile consultation and analog system optimization
Fast, secure insured freight shipping with protective white-glove packaging on every order
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