Audio Research Reference Phono 10

Triumphantly validating the superiority of analog

The Reference Phono 10 is the product that triumphantly validates the superiority of analog music playback.

From the first note on that treasured LP, its greatness is at once obvious and breathtaking—the Reference Phono 10 is a sonic blockbuster that establishes the new standard in analog music playback. Emphatically.

Through the REF Phono 10, great vinyl takes on an explosive, dynamic quality that is normally encountered only in a live performance, whether it is the crescendo of an orchestra or the delicacy of a solo piano. When called for, the stage is vast, holographic, and enveloping: Dimensionality is redefined, with an engaging, ‘reach out and touch it’ quality.

The REF Phono 10 resolves so much detail without grain, delighting listeners with new information extracted from those familiar grooves. The musical experience is so much more involving and persuasive—you do not want it to end. But these are mere words that pale in comparison to the actual listening experience, Music in High Definition®.

The Reference Phono 10 is a true dual-mono design with totally separate signal paths for each channel, from the dual-mono power supply forward. There are separate high- and low-voltage transformers for each channel, with sufficient energy storage for a serious amplifier, providing incredible dynamic headroom. There are twenty stages of electronic regulation, with separate vacuum-tube regulation for each channel.

Separate amplification & power supply chassis

The audio circuits are fully discrete, pure Class-A, with zero feedback. The low gain audio section uses eight 6H30 tubes, four per channel. Rather than using a step-up transformer, special high-gain, extremely low-noise FETs are used in the high- gain section.

This approach is costlier than using a transformer, but it is well worth the dramatic increase in performance.

The design is fully balanced, with an input circuit that allows its RCA inputs to operate in a balanced configuration without requiring an inverter.

There are two sets of inputs, independently configurable, including switchable Low and High gain, seven loading options, plus Custom which can be factory-set according to your needs. In addition to standard RIAA equalization, the Reference Phono 10 also includes early Columbia and Decca equalization curves. All controls can be accessed from your seat via remote control.