Passive Magnetic Preamplifier

A high performance transformer based magnetic volume control. It features two highly acclaimed attenuating transformers and Swiss made ELMA switches point-to-point hand wired into a custom case. It changes output level via passive control in multiple steps to control the volume of high fidelity audio. This passive control unit, by applying transformer technology, offers a material improvement over all previous such schemes based around resistive attenuation.

The concept of passive control units replacing active line preamplifiers has existed for some time. Conventional passive preamplifiers have relied on resistive networks selected with a switch or rotary variable resistors. The fundamental problem with this type of device is substantial mismatches of impedance either at the source or the load, coupled with a perceived loss of dynamics.

The Music First Audio Passive Magnetic Preamplifier overcomes these problems by using a high quality, custom made, hand wound transformer. This transformer features the largest commercially available 80% nickel Permalloy core for maximum level handling, low distortion and superior sound quality and a heavy duty Mumetal shielding can for protection from external magnetic fields.

This unit sits between source devices (CD player, turntable etc.) and power amplifiers acting as a passive pre-amp.






  • 6 inputs (4 x unbalanced, 2 x balanced).
  • Balanced or unbalanced outputs.
  • A +6db switch means the unit is passive with gain, so low gain amplifiers can be driven to their maximum efficiency by components that otherwise might require active boosting.
  • All internal connections use 0.6mm silver coated solid core copper wire with PTFE insulation, point to point hand wired.
  • All components are of the highest quality, Neutrik XLR connecters and Swiss made ELMA silver contact rotary switches.
  • Each unit is entirely hand constructed and rigorously tested, both mechanically and electrically.
  • 3 way grounding switch allows any grounding issues to be addressed easily.
  • Transformer isolates components, breaking ground loop problems and reducing noise.
  • Transformer matches impedance between components.
  • Transformer affords superior transfer of musical energy.





MK II Magnetic Preamplifier

Music First Audio introduced the Passive Magnetic Preamplifier in 2003. In the five years since, our preamplifier has received across-the-board acclaim with outstanding reviews and awards from many well respected publications.

We now offer a new version of our preamplifier, complete with extra features, a larger case and subtle but audible improvements in the transformer itself.

Of course, we will still be offering our original and multiple award winning preamplifier which will now be re-named 'Classic' for those customers who do not need the extra features and facilities

25% larger core: The construction on the transformer in the MKII is identical to that of the classic Stevens & Billington Limited TX102 but we have used a larger core which increases both low frequency response and headroom.

Additional parallel outputs The MKII preamplifier features dual RCA (unbalanced) and dual XLR (balanced) outputs for bi-amplification.

Remote level control. The MKII features remote control of level (by using a stepper motor on the rear of the level switch, there are no additional components in the signal path)

Larger case The MKII preamplifier comes in a full width case to accommodate the extra outputs and remote control motor assembly. We've also made some improvements to the case manufacture to improve the overall look and feel of our preamplifier

As with our original preamplifier, the MKII is available with either copper or silver wound transformers. Please note, as with our original preamplifier the copper wound preamplifier uses 0.6mm silver coated PTFE insulated copper wire for all internal wiring and the silver wound version uses 99.9999% pure silver wire throughout.

This unit sits between source devices (CD player, turntable etc.) and power amplifiers acting as a passive pre-amp.






  • 6 inputs (4 x unbalanced, 2 x balanced).
  • Parallel balanced and unbalanced outputs.
  • A +6db switch means the unit is passive with gain, so low gain amplifiers can be driven to their maximum efficiency by components that otherwise might require active boosting.
  • All internal connections use 0.6mm silver coated solid core copper wire with PTFE insulation, point to point hand wired
  • All components are of the highest quality, Neutrik XLR connectors and Swiss made ELMA silver contact rotary switches.
  • Each unit is entirely hand constructed and rigorously tested, both mechanically and electrically.
  • 3 way grounding switch allows any grounding issues to be addressed easily.
  • Transformer isolates components, breaking ground loop problems and reducing noise.
  • Transformer matches impedance between components.
  • Transformer affords superior transfer of musical energy.





Reference Preamplifier

Following the success and critical acclaim of our highly regarded, multiple-award-winning Passive Magnetic Preamplifier, Music First Audio is proud to present our brand new reference model. Featuring a host of cost-no-object refinements to the original design, our reference preamplifier sets a new standard in preamplification.





The reference Preamplifier was launched on the 21st September at The London Sound & Vision Show 2007 to a great many favourable comments from show visitors. In just a few short weeks this new preamplifier has drawn widespread acclaim from everyone who have heard it.

The original Music First Audio Passive magnetic Preamplifier offered a previously unheard level of sonic transparency. It was launched in 2003 and received glowing reviews across the international Hi Fi press. The Music First Preamplifier holds the following prestigious awards:

Hi Fi News Awards 2004 'Editors Choice' January 2005; Hi Fi News Awards 2005 'Preamplifier of the year' November 2005; Positive Feedback Online 'Writers Choice' Award 2005; Six Moons 'Best of 2005' Award; Hi Fi News Awards 2006 'Preamplifier of the year' November 2006 (the first time in the magazine's fifty year history that any product has won twice) and Hi Fi World Awards 2006 'Preamplifier of the year' January 2007.

Our reference model builds on this success. The result of three years of research and development, coupled with thirty plus years of world class transformer design, no aspect has been left to chance. Every component and each material has been chosen specifically for its properties and performance in this application. We have listened to the comments of our many satisfied customers and we have listened to every option and component.


Features:

Introducing the "Nickel Brick" (TX102-mkIV) transformer featuring refined winding geometry, a new 25% bigger core and improved shielding characteristics resulting in unparalleled sonic performance

  • Six transformer configuration to provide:
  • Transformer isolated Record output
  • Transformer isolated Auxiliary output TX102 MkIV Main Output
  • 46 position level control from - 60dB to +6 dB
  • Four unbalanced inputs on 'CMC' gold plated, high quality RCA connectors.
  • Two balanced inputs on Neutrik gold plated nickel XLR sockets
  • Dual main output on Neutrik gold plated nickel XLR sockets
  • Dual main output on 'CMC' gold plated, high quality RCA connectors.
  • Rear panel mounted output ground selector switch.
  • All internal components mounted on a thick, heavy, dual material laminate block for added weight, stability and vibration immunity.
  • Full size 432mm x 85mm x 320 mm case.
  • Seamless + 6dB switching offers gain for lower powered sources
  • Remote control of level
  • Hand built in the UK




Moving coil cartridge step up transformer

This product was designed with an absolute "cost no object" approach to component choice. It is based around a transformer that takes moving coil step up to a new level.

The 80% Nickel core used in this transformer is to our knowledge of the largest size ever applied to low level transformers. The result is virtually transparent MC step-up.

Housed in custom anodised aluminium case the unit measures 8 1/2" wide x 3 1/2" high x 8" deep. Two Swiss made ELMA switches on the front panel control ratio and load respectively. The rear panel provides inputs and outputs on high quality RCA/ phono jacks and a binding post is used for ground connections. 5 switchable 'dummy' loads from 10K to 80K plus O/C. Switchable step up ratio +14,+20 & +26dB


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