90%
AVM Audio Ovation PH 8.3
OVATION Tube Phono Preamplifier with up to 4 Inputs (optional plug-in modules) · Available Input Modules: MC XLR Balanced, MC RCA, MM RCA · Analog and Fully Passive Phono Signal Equalization · Extensive Menu Functions (adjustable input sensitivity, peak power, etc.) · Includes RC PH Remote Control for convenient adjustment of amplification, equalization curve, load, and more.
Perfect sound enjoyment for vinyl lovers
The Ovation PH 8.3 from AVM Audio sets new standards in vinyl playback. This high-end phono pre-amplifier is perfect for demanding music lovers, who want to fully exploit the potential of their record collection. Thanks to its modular design and the use of highest quality components, the PH 8.3 enables a pure, authentic sound reproduction. The elaborate power supply construction ensures minimal noise and maximum dynamics, guaranteeing a detailed and warm listening experience. The simple, elegant design with a well readable OLED display also ensures intuitive operation and makes the PH 8.3 a real eye-catcher in any setup.
Modularity and audiophile technology
The modularity of the Ovation PH 8.3 makes it unique in its class and ensures maximum flexibility. Various modules, such as the MM/MC phono module, can be installed individually to adapt the phono pre-amplifier precisely to your needs. Whether Moving Magnet or Moving Coil – the PH 8.3 offers the right solution to get the best out of every pickup. The flexible adaptation to different input resistances and capacities ensures that every record sounds exactly as the artist intended. The elaborately developed power supply guarantees a constant, noise-free voltage supply and thus the highest dynamics, enabling even the finest details to be reproduced without loss. This unique combination of technology and flexibility makes the PH 8.3 an indispensable component for every high-end vinyl setup.
Sound Art in Perfection: The AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Phono Preamp Tested
„Sometimes, it needs to be “nice.” In this case, it means that every conceivable comfort is built into such a device to ensure that using it is truly enjoyable. Those interested in the audio-video manufacturer based in Malsch, Baden – known as AVM – have known this for quite some time. The high-end “Ovation” series from this manufacturer represents a largely modular cornucopia of possibilities. After recently elevating the preamps and power amplifiers to a new evolutionary level, it is no surprise that it was time for an “official” phono preamp that proves worthy of the great amplifiers. Here it is – the “Ovation PH 8.3,” which indeed has no equal in terms of features. Naturally, this modular device, which can be equipped with up to four input boards, is not exactly a bargain: the fun starts at 7,000 euros. If you are serious about it, the price can easily reach five figures. Even though the Ovation PH 8.3 is clad in the cool, sober aluminum outfit of its “series siblings,” there is room for warmth and a touch of coziness. A central component of the device is the tube output stage, also designed as a module, which adorns the high-level preamp PA 8.2. However, this alone does not suffice for phono preamplification; a suitable input configuration is necessary. Four such input modules can be plugged in, available in three different versions: MC with balanced inputs, MC with unbalanced inputs, and MM with unbalanced connections. The MC modules cost 990 euros each, while the MM modules are priced at 690 euros. Therefore, the PH 8.3 cannot be had for less than around 7,700 euros, and no clear-thinking person would equip such a caliber with just an MM module. This means that MC compatibility starts at a minimum of 8,000 euros, with the full setup costing 11,000 euros. AVM has worked long and hard to luxuriously integrate its modular technology into the device concept – and it succeeds here as well. This means that the device recognizes which module is in which slot and configures the control menu accordingly. And this is where it gets exciting, as the entire range of possibilities opens up. Let’s navigate through the offerings based on an MC input with RCA connections; the central blue VF display always provides information about the set parameters. These can be adjusted both on the device itself and via a stylish aluminum remote control. The input impedance is variable in six steps: 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ohms. This should suit nearly all situations. For amplification, there are five levels in five-decibel steps, which should also resolve nearly any adjustment issue. Next, the desired equalization curve can be set, and the large AVM offers six different options. Vinyl insiders understand the significance: the RIAA curve, which is standard today for cutting records, was not always the benchmark; until well into the 1960s, nearly every label defined its own truth in this regard. For classical music lovers, the adjustable equalization is a blessing, especially when it works conveniently from the comfort of a chair. A brief excursion into the related truth: there is none. Just set the curve that you like best. We still have two buttons on the remote: Mono and Subsonic. Both should be self-explanatory. And? Is there anything in terms of features that you feel is missing? I thought so. Neither do I. A look inside the device reveals considerable effort, which is not surprising given the device’s ambitions. The power supply for the electronics is handled by a total of four small switch…“
LP Magazin,
March 2020
The Magic of Vinyl Rekindled: AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Reviewed
„This phono preamplifier not only clearly demonstrates that the voice is positioned well above the guitar body, but also reveals how sensitively Diamond plucks the strings. The performance is spatially expansive, yet maintains a clearly defined focus on the main performer. We venture into the cool realms of the Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, where the Esbjörn Svensson Trio was recorded. The result is available as a double LP titled “From Gagarin’s Point of View,” which impressively illustrates why this trio is cherished worldwide. The dedication with which the musicians play together, managing to convey an incredible lightness, is captured by the PH 8.3 with precision and emotion. Notably, the sound image extends in a controlled and tight manner into the deepest frequency ranges, without robbing the bass and its resonance body of its momentum and life. Everything that Mr. Svensson infuses into the piano is realistically reproduced by the PH 8.3.“
Stereo, Michael Lang.
1/2021
Sound Art in Perfection: The AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Phono Preamp
„Sometimes, it needs to be “nice.” In this case, it means that every conceivable comfort is built into such a device to ensure that using it is truly enjoyable. Those interested in the audio-video manufacturer based in Malsch, Baden – known as AVM – have known this for quite some time. The high-end “Ovation” series from this manufacturer represents a largely modular cornucopia of possibilities. After recently elevating the preamps and power amplifiers to a new evolutionary stage, it is no surprise that it was time for an “official” phono preamp that proves worthy of the great amplifiers. Here it is: the “Ovation PH 8.3,” which indeed has no equal in terms of features. Naturally, this modular device, which can be equipped with up to four input boards, is not exactly a bargain: the fun starts at 7,000 euros. If you are serious about it, the price can easily reach five figures. Even though the Ovation PH 8.3 is clad in the cool, sober aluminum outfit of its “series siblings,” there is room for warmth and a touch of coziness. A central component of the device is the tube output stage, also designed as a module, which adorns the high-level preamp PA 8.2. However, this alone does not suffice for phono preamplification; a suitable input configuration is necessary. Four such input modules can be plugged in, available in three different versions: MC with balanced inputs, MC with unbalanced inputs, and MM with unbalanced connections. The MC modules cost 990 euros each, while the MM modules are priced at 690 euros. Therefore, the PH 8.3 cannot be had for less than around 7,700 euros, and no clear-thinking person would equip such a caliber with just an MM module. This means that MC compatibility starts at a minimum of 8,000 euros, with the full setup costing 11,000 euros. AVM has worked long and hard to luxuriously integrate its modular technology into the device concept – and it succeeds here as well. This means that the device recognizes which module is in which slot and configures the control menu accordingly. And this is where it gets exciting, as the entire range of possibilities opens up. Let’s navigate through the offerings using an MC input with RCA connections; the central blue VF display always provides information about the set parameters. These can be adjusted both on the device itself and via a stylish aluminum remote control. The input impedance is variable in six steps: 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ohms. This should suit nearly all situations. For amplification, there are five levels in five-decibel steps, which should also resolve nearly any adjustment issue. Next, the desired equalization curve is adjustable, and the large AVM offers six different options. Vinyl insiders understand the significance: the RIAA curve, which is standard today for cutting records, was not always the benchmark; until well into the 1960s, nearly every label defined its own truth in this regard. This adjustable equalization is a blessing for classical music lovers, especially since it operates conveniently from the comfort of a chair. A brief excursion into the related truth: there is none. Just set the curve to whatever you like best. We still have two buttons on the remote: Mono and Subsonic. Both should be self-explanatory. And? Is there anything in terms of features that you feel is missing? I thought so. Neither do I. A look inside the device reveals considerable effort, which is not surprising given the device’s ambitions. The power supply for the electronics is handled by a total of four small switch-mode power supplies,“
LP Magazin,
March 2020
The Magic of Vinyl Rekindled: AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Reviewed
„This phono preamplifier not only clearly shows that the voice is positioned a good distance above the guitar body, but also reveals how sensitively Diamond plucks the strings. The performance is spatially expansive, without losing the main actor from its clearly defined focus. Off to the cool realms of the Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, where the Esbjörn Svensson Trio was recorded. The result is available as a double LP “From Gagarin’s Point of View” and impressively illustrates why this trio is cherished worldwide. The fervor with which the musicians play together, managing to convey an immense lightness, is reproduced by the PH 8.3 with precision and emotion. Notably, the sound image extends in a controlled and tight manner into the deepest frequency ranges, without robbing the bass and its resonance body of its momentum and life. Everything that Mr. Svensson pours into the piano in terms of feeling is realistically captured by the PH 8.3.“
HIFI EXKLUSIV, Michael Lang.
1/2021
The Cornucopia of Sound Worlds: AVM Ovation PH 8.3
„The PH 8.3 was the ideal tool for our turntable tests. It made the differences between turntables and cartridges very clear. This speaks to its high sound quality and also to its neutrality. Both aspects were evident in individual tests as well. The AVM phono preamp had no musical preferences and reproduced everything with accuracy and joy. It removed its own character from the sound, allowing the other components to shine. It succeeded in making sound events radiate without sounding bright, giving each note the right dose of energy. Wow! It is equally a source of pleasure and a working tool.“
stereoplay, Alexander Rose-Fehling.
11/19
Sound Art in Perfection: The AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Phono Preamp Tested
„Sometimes, it needs to be “nice.” In this case, it means that every conceivable comfort is built into such a device to ensure that using it is truly enjoyable. Those interested in the audio-video manufacturer based in Malsch, Baden – known as AVM – have known this for quite some time. The high-end “Ovation” series from this manufacturer represents a largely modular cornucopia of possibilities. After recently elevating the preamps and power amplifiers to a new evolutionary level, it is no surprise that it was time for an “official” phono preamp that proves worthy of the great amplifiers. Here it is – the “Ovation PH 8.3,” which indeed has no equal in terms of features. Naturally, this modular device, which can be equipped with up to four input boards, is not exactly a bargain: the fun starts at 7,000 euros. If you are serious about it, the price can easily reach five figures. Even though the Ovation PH 8.3 is clad in the cool, sober aluminum outfit of its “series siblings,” there is room for warmth and a touch of coziness. A central component of the device is the tube output stage, also designed as a module, which adorns the high-level preamp PA 8.2. However, this alone does not suffice for phono preamplification; a suitable input configuration is necessary. Four such input modules can be plugged in, available in three different versions: MC with balanced inputs, MC with unbalanced inputs, and MM with unbalanced connections. The MC modules cost 990 euros each, while the MM modules are priced at 690 euros. Therefore, the PH 8.3 cannot be had for less than around 7,700 euros, and no clear-thinking person would equip such a caliber with just an MM module. This means that MC compatibility starts at a minimum of 8,000 euros, with the full setup costing 11,000 euros. AVM has worked long and hard to luxuriously integrate its modular technology into the device concept – and it succeeds here as well. This means that the device recognizes which module is in which slot and configures the control menu accordingly. And this is where it gets exciting, as the entire range of possibilities opens up. Let’s navigate through the offerings based on an MC input with RCA connections; the central blue VF display always provides information about the set parameters. These can be adjusted both on the device itself and via a stylish aluminum remote control. The input impedance is variable in six steps: 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ohms. This should suit nearly all situations. For amplification, there are five levels in five-decibel steps, which should also resolve nearly any adjustment issue. Next, the desired equalization curve can be set, and the large AVM offers six different options. Vinyl insiders understand the significance: the RIAA curve, which is standard today for cutting records, was not always the benchmark; until well into the 1960s, nearly every label defined its own truth in this regard. For classical music lovers, the adjustable equalization is a blessing, especially when it works conveniently from the comfort of a chair. A brief excursion into the related truth: there is none. Just set the curve that you like best. We still have two buttons on the remote: Mono and Subsonic. Both should be self-explanatory. And? Is there anything in terms of features that you feel is missing? I thought so. Neither do I. A look inside the device reveals considerable effort, which is not surprising given the device’s ambitions. The power supply for the electronics is handled by a total of four small switch…“
LP Magazin,
March 2020
The Magic of Vinyl Rekindled: AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Reviewed
„This phono preamplifier not only clearly demonstrates that the voice is positioned well above the guitar body, but also reveals how sensitively Diamond plucks the strings. The performance is spatially expansive, yet maintains a clearly defined focus on the main performer. We venture into the cool realms of the Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, where the Esbjörn Svensson Trio was recorded. The result is available as a double LP titled “From Gagarin’s Point of View,” which impressively illustrates why this trio is cherished worldwide. The dedication with which the musicians play together, managing to convey an incredible lightness, is captured by the PH 8.3 with precision and emotion. Notably, the sound image extends in a controlled and tight manner into the deepest frequency ranges, without robbing the bass and its resonance body of its momentum and life. Everything that Mr. Svensson infuses into the piano is realistically reproduced by the PH 8.3.“
Stereo, Michael Lang.
1/2021
Sound Art in Perfection: The AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Phono Preamp
„Sometimes, it needs to be “nice.” In this case, it means that every conceivable comfort is built into such a device to ensure that using it is truly enjoyable. Those interested in the audio-video manufacturer based in Malsch, Baden – known as AVM – have known this for quite some time. The high-end “Ovation” series from this manufacturer represents a largely modular cornucopia of possibilities. After recently elevating the preamps and power amplifiers to a new evolutionary stage, it is no surprise that it was time for an “official” phono preamp that proves worthy of the great amplifiers. Here it is: the “Ovation PH 8.3,” which indeed has no equal in terms of features. Naturally, this modular device, which can be equipped with up to four input boards, is not exactly a bargain: the fun starts at 7,000 euros. If you are serious about it, the price can easily reach five figures. Even though the Ovation PH 8.3 is clad in the cool, sober aluminum outfit of its “series siblings,” there is room for warmth and a touch of coziness. A central component of the device is the tube output stage, also designed as a module, which adorns the high-level preamp PA 8.2. However, this alone does not suffice for phono preamplification; a suitable input configuration is necessary. Four such input modules can be plugged in, available in three different versions: MC with balanced inputs, MC with unbalanced inputs, and MM with unbalanced connections. The MC modules cost 990 euros each, while the MM modules are priced at 690 euros. Therefore, the PH 8.3 cannot be had for less than around 7,700 euros, and no clear-thinking person would equip such a caliber with just an MM module. This means that MC compatibility starts at a minimum of 8,000 euros, with the full setup costing 11,000 euros. AVM has worked long and hard to luxuriously integrate its modular technology into the device concept – and it succeeds here as well. This means that the device recognizes which module is in which slot and configures the control menu accordingly. And this is where it gets exciting, as the entire range of possibilities opens up. Let’s navigate through the offerings using an MC input with RCA connections; the central blue VF display always provides information about the set parameters. These can be adjusted both on the device itself and via a stylish aluminum remote control. The input impedance is variable in six steps: 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ohms. This should suit nearly all situations. For amplification, there are five levels in five-decibel steps, which should also resolve nearly any adjustment issue. Next, the desired equalization curve is adjustable, and the large AVM offers six different options. Vinyl insiders understand the significance: the RIAA curve, which is standard today for cutting records, was not always the benchmark; until well into the 1960s, nearly every label defined its own truth in this regard. This adjustable equalization is a blessing for classical music lovers, especially since it operates conveniently from the comfort of a chair. A brief excursion into the related truth: there is none. Just set the curve to whatever you like best. We still have two buttons on the remote: Mono and Subsonic. Both should be self-explanatory. And? Is there anything in terms of features that you feel is missing? I thought so. Neither do I. A look inside the device reveals considerable effort, which is not surprising given the device’s ambitions. The power supply for the electronics is handled by a total of four small switch-mode power supplies,“
LP Magazin,
March 2020
The Magic of Vinyl Rekindled: AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Reviewed
„This phono preamplifier not only clearly shows that the voice is positioned a good distance above the guitar body, but also reveals how sensitively Diamond plucks the strings. The performance is spatially expansive, without losing the main actor from its clearly defined focus. Off to the cool realms of the Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, where the Esbjörn Svensson Trio was recorded. The result is available as a double LP “From Gagarin’s Point of View” and impressively illustrates why this trio is cherished worldwide. The fervor with which the musicians play together, managing to convey an immense lightness, is reproduced by the PH 8.3 with precision and emotion. Notably, the sound image extends in a controlled and tight manner into the deepest frequency ranges, without robbing the bass and its resonance body of its momentum and life. Everything that Mr. Svensson pours into the piano in terms of feeling is realistically captured by the PH 8.3.“
HIFI EXKLUSIV, Michael Lang.
1/2021
The Cornucopia of Sound Worlds: AVM Ovation PH 8.3
„The PH 8.3 was the ideal tool for our turntable tests. It made the differences between turntables and cartridges very clear. This speaks to its high sound quality and also to its neutrality. Both aspects were evident in individual tests as well. The AVM phono preamp had no musical preferences and reproduced everything with accuracy and joy. It removed its own character from the sound, allowing the other components to shine. It succeeded in making sound events radiate without sounding bright, giving each note the right dose of energy. Wow! It is equally a source of pleasure and a working tool.“
stereoplay, Alexander Rose-Fehling.
11/19
Sound Art in Perfection: The AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Phono Preamp Tested
„Sometimes, it needs to be “nice.” In this case, it means that every conceivable comfort is built into such a device to ensure that using it is truly enjoyable. Those interested in the audio-video manufacturer based in Malsch, Baden – known as AVM – have known this for quite some time. The high-end “Ovation” series from this manufacturer represents a largely modular cornucopia of possibilities. After recently elevating the preamps and power amplifiers to a new evolutionary level, it is no surprise that it was time for an “official” phono preamp that proves worthy of the great amplifiers. Here it is – the “Ovation PH 8.3,” which indeed has no equal in terms of features. Naturally, this modular device, which can be equipped with up to four input boards, is not exactly a bargain: the fun starts at 7,000 euros. If you are serious about it, the price can easily reach five figures. Even though the Ovation PH 8.3 is clad in the cool, sober aluminum outfit of its “series siblings,” there is room for warmth and a touch of coziness. A central component of the device is the tube output stage, also designed as a module, which adorns the high-level preamp PA 8.2. However, this alone does not suffice for phono preamplification; a suitable input configuration is necessary. Four such input modules can be plugged in, available in three different versions: MC with balanced inputs, MC with unbalanced inputs, and MM with unbalanced connections. The MC modules cost 990 euros each, while the MM modules are priced at 690 euros. Therefore, the PH 8.3 cannot be had for less than around 7,700 euros, and no clear-thinking person would equip such a caliber with just an MM module. This means that MC compatibility starts at a minimum of 8,000 euros, with the full setup costing 11,000 euros. AVM has worked long and hard to luxuriously integrate its modular technology into the device concept – and it succeeds here as well. This means that the device recognizes which module is in which slot and configures the control menu accordingly. And this is where it gets exciting, as the entire range of possibilities opens up. Let’s navigate through the offerings based on an MC input with RCA connections; the central blue VF display always provides information about the set parameters. These can be adjusted both on the device itself and via a stylish aluminum remote control. The input impedance is variable in six steps: 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ohms. This should suit nearly all situations. For amplification, there are five levels in five-decibel steps, which should also resolve nearly any adjustment issue. Next, the desired equalization curve can be set, and the large AVM offers six different options. Vinyl insiders understand the significance: the RIAA curve, which is standard today for cutting records, was not always the benchmark; until well into the 1960s, nearly every label defined its own truth in this regard. For classical music lovers, the adjustable equalization is a blessing, especially when it works conveniently from the comfort of a chair. A brief excursion into the related truth: there is none. Just set the curve that you like best. We still have two buttons on the remote: Mono and Subsonic. Both should be self-explanatory. And? Is there anything in terms of features that you feel is missing? I thought so. Neither do I. A look inside the device reveals considerable effort, which is not surprising given the device’s ambitions. The power supply for the electronics is handled by a total of four small switch…“
LP Magazin,
March 2020
The Magic of Vinyl Rekindled: AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Reviewed
„This phono preamplifier not only clearly demonstrates that the voice is positioned well above the guitar body, but also reveals how sensitively Diamond plucks the strings. The performance is spatially expansive, yet maintains a clearly defined focus on the main performer. We venture into the cool realms of the Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, where the Esbjörn Svensson Trio was recorded. The result is available as a double LP titled “From Gagarin’s Point of View,” which impressively illustrates why this trio is cherished worldwide. The dedication with which the musicians play together, managing to convey an incredible lightness, is captured by the PH 8.3 with precision and emotion. Notably, the sound image extends in a controlled and tight manner into the deepest frequency ranges, without robbing the bass and its resonance body of its momentum and life. Everything that Mr. Svensson infuses into the piano is realistically reproduced by the PH 8.3.“
Stereo, Michael Lang.
1/2021
Sound Art in Perfection: The AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Phono Preamp
„Sometimes, it needs to be “nice.” In this case, it means that every conceivable comfort is built into such a device to ensure that using it is truly enjoyable. Those interested in the audio-video manufacturer based in Malsch, Baden – known as AVM – have known this for quite some time. The high-end “Ovation” series from this manufacturer represents a largely modular cornucopia of possibilities. After recently elevating the preamps and power amplifiers to a new evolutionary stage, it is no surprise that it was time for an “official” phono preamp that proves worthy of the great amplifiers. Here it is: the “Ovation PH 8.3,” which indeed has no equal in terms of features. Naturally, this modular device, which can be equipped with up to four input boards, is not exactly a bargain: the fun starts at 7,000 euros. If you are serious about it, the price can easily reach five figures. Even though the Ovation PH 8.3 is clad in the cool, sober aluminum outfit of its “series siblings,” there is room for warmth and a touch of coziness. A central component of the device is the tube output stage, also designed as a module, which adorns the high-level preamp PA 8.2. However, this alone does not suffice for phono preamplification; a suitable input configuration is necessary. Four such input modules can be plugged in, available in three different versions: MC with balanced inputs, MC with unbalanced inputs, and MM with unbalanced connections. The MC modules cost 990 euros each, while the MM modules are priced at 690 euros. Therefore, the PH 8.3 cannot be had for less than around 7,700 euros, and no clear-thinking person would equip such a caliber with just an MM module. This means that MC compatibility starts at a minimum of 8,000 euros, with the full setup costing 11,000 euros. AVM has worked long and hard to luxuriously integrate its modular technology into the device concept – and it succeeds here as well. This means that the device recognizes which module is in which slot and configures the control menu accordingly. And this is where it gets exciting, as the entire range of possibilities opens up. Let’s navigate through the offerings using an MC input with RCA connections; the central blue VF display always provides information about the set parameters. These can be adjusted both on the device itself and via a stylish aluminum remote control. The input impedance is variable in six steps: 30, 50, 100, 300, 500, and 1000 ohms. This should suit nearly all situations. For amplification, there are five levels in five-decibel steps, which should also resolve nearly any adjustment issue. Next, the desired equalization curve is adjustable, and the large AVM offers six different options. Vinyl insiders understand the significance: the RIAA curve, which is standard today for cutting records, was not always the benchmark; until well into the 1960s, nearly every label defined its own truth in this regard. This adjustable equalization is a blessing for classical music lovers, especially since it operates conveniently from the comfort of a chair. A brief excursion into the related truth: there is none. Just set the curve to whatever you like best. We still have two buttons on the remote: Mono and Subsonic. Both should be self-explanatory. And? Is there anything in terms of features that you feel is missing? I thought so. Neither do I. A look inside the device reveals considerable effort, which is not surprising given the device’s ambitions. The power supply for the electronics is handled by a total of four small switch-mode power supplies,“
LP Magazin,
March 2020
The Magic of Vinyl Rekindled: AVM Ovation PH 8.3 Reviewed
„This phono preamplifier not only clearly shows that the voice is positioned a good distance above the guitar body, but also reveals how sensitively Diamond plucks the strings. The performance is spatially expansive, without losing the main actor from its clearly defined focus. Off to the cool realms of the Atlantis Studios in Stockholm, where the Esbjörn Svensson Trio was recorded. The result is available as a double LP “From Gagarin’s Point of View” and impressively illustrates why this trio is cherished worldwide. The fervor with which the musicians play together, managing to convey an immense lightness, is reproduced by the PH 8.3 with precision and emotion. Notably, the sound image extends in a controlled and tight manner into the deepest frequency ranges, without robbing the bass and its resonance body of its momentum and life. Everything that Mr. Svensson pours into the piano in terms of feeling is realistically captured by the PH 8.3.“
HIFI EXKLUSIV, Michael Lang.
1/2021
The Cornucopia of Sound Worlds: AVM Ovation PH 8.3
„The PH 8.3 was the ideal tool for our turntable tests. It made the differences between turntables and cartridges very clear. This speaks to its high sound quality and also to its neutrality. Both aspects were evident in individual tests as well. The AVM phono preamp had no musical preferences and reproduced everything with accuracy and joy. It removed its own character from the sound, allowing the other components to shine. It succeeded in making sound events radiate without sounding bright, giving each note the right dose of energy. Wow! It is equally a source of pleasure and a working tool.“
stereoplay, Alexander Rose-Fehling.
11/19
Technical Data
PH 8.3
Base Unit – Settings | |
| Subfilter (switchable) | 30 Hz, 12 dB/octave |
| Sensitivity (adjustable) | -10 / -5 / 0 / +5 / +10 dB |
| MONO / STEREO | Switchable (including phase inversion) |
| Equalization | Corner frequencies / Time constants |
| RIAA | 50Hz / 500Hz / 2120Hz corresponds to 3180µs / 318µs / 75µs |
| TELDEC | 50Hz / 500Hz / 3180Hz corresponds to 3180µs / 318µs / 50µs |
| NARTB | 60Hz / 500Hz / 1590Hz corresponds to 2653µs / 318µs / 100µs |
| EMI | 70Hz / 500Hz / 2500Hz corresponds to 2274µs / 318µs / 64µs |
| COLUMBIA | 100Hz / 500Hz / 1590Hz corresponds to 1592µs / 318µs / 100µs |
| DECCA | 50Hz / 500Hz / 2790Hz corresponds to 1592µs / 318µs / 57µs |
| NOTE | All equalization curves are for LPs (33 1/3 rpm). |
Base Unit – Outputs | |
| Output impedance RCA | 50 Ohms |
| Output impedance XLR | 100 Ohms |
| Max. output voltage RCA | 7 V |
| Max. output voltage XLR | 14 V |
| Turntable supply | 15V / 1.5 A, galvanically isolated |
Base Unit – General | |
| Mains voltage | 100 – 240VAC / 50-60 Hz |
| Power consumption max | 25W |
| Power consumption standby mode | 0.45W |
| Power consumption with mains switch (18) in 0 (off) position | 0W |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 431 x 130 x 390mm |
| Weight | 12 kg |
Plug-in Cards – MC RCA, MC XLR | |
| Sensitivity (1 kHz, Ua=1V) | 55 / 100 / 170 / 315 / 550 µV (adjustable) |
| Overload (1 kHz, 0dB) | 2.5 mV |
| Impedance | 1000 / 500 / 300 / 100 / 50 / 30 Ohms (adjustable) |
| S/N | (0.5mV / 0dB / 33 Ohms, 73 dB / 77 dB(A) |
| Plug-in Card – MM RCA | |
| Sensitivity (1 kHz, Ua=1V) | 0.5 / 0.9 / 1.6 / 2.8 / 5 mV (adjustable) |
| Overload (1 kHz, 0dB) | 25 mV |
| Impedance | 50 / 100 / 150 / 200 / 300 / 400 pF (adjustable) |
| S/N | (0.5mV / 0dB / 33 Ohms, 79 dB / 85 dB(A) |
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Technical Data
PH 8.3
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Professional Reviews 90/100
Deliciously Crispy
Sound Quality
92/100
Cartridge Compatibility
94/100
Build Quality
88/100
Value for Money
85/100
The quiet, refined Ovation PH 8.3 blends tube ease with solid-state control, delivering deep, wide staging, clean bass, and a natural midband that never turns syrupy. Michael Fremer praises its versatility, while its multiple gain, loading, and EQ options make it a standout for cartridge tinkerers and archivists alike.
What Reviewers Are Saying
Pros
Exceptionally versatile with adjustable gain, loading, mono/stereo switching, polarity inversion, and multiple EQ curves.
Delivers a quiet, controlled presentation with clean bass, generous decay, and expansive soundstage depth and width.
Balances tube-like ease and richness with solid-state clarity, avoiding heavy coloration or excessive softness.
&
Cons
The front-panel controls can be hard to read in some lighting because the labeling is not illuminated.
Its feature set may be more than needed for listeners with a simple single-arm, single-turntable setup.
SOUND QUALITY PERFORMANCE 92/100
Reviewers describe the PH 8.3 as charming, sophisticated, and notably free of obvious tube coloration, with a very quiet gain stage and a flat, well-balanced presentation. It also gets praise for clean bass, generous decay, and an expansive, coherent presentation that stays controlled even as the music grows larger and more intense.
Transparency Noise Floor
93/100
Michael Fremer specifically calls the solid-state gain stage very quiet and says the sound does not scream tube signature or noise. He also describes a black, clean backdrop around long decays and transparent treble, which supports a very quiet, clear presentation.
Tonal Balance Musicality
92/100
The PH 8.3 is described as charming and sophisticated, with tube-like ease and flow but without obvious coloration. Fremer repeatedly points to clean but pleasantly rich mids, solid bass, and a presentation that sounds natural rather than overly soft or overly analytical.
Dynamics
91/100
Reviewers highlight clean, precise attack, convincing bass drive, and a presentation that becomes more epic and energetic as playback level rises. The stage is described as churning with transportive energy while still keeping transients controlled and bass tight.
Soundstage Imaging
92/100
The staging is described as deep and wide, with strong spatial presence and realistic decay that helps instruments feel substantial in the room. The sound opens up impressively on demanding material, with a palpable sense of space and image solidity.
Assessments of Build Quality, Usability, and Overall Propositions.
Cartridge Compatibility
94/100
This is one of the PH 8.3’s biggest strengths: it offers MM and MC support, selectable gain, multiple MC impedance choices, MM capacitance settings, mono/stereo switching, absolute phase inversion, and several equalization curves. Reviewers emphasize that it can be tailored to a wide range of cartridges and records with unusual ease.
Build Quality
88/100
Reviewers praise the unit as well conceived and note solid engineering, ergonomic excellence, and a secure flight case for shipping. The main criticism is practical rather than structural: the front-panel labeling can be hard to read in some lighting, and the control layout is a bit of a chore from the front.
Value for Money
85/100
The review acknowledges the very high asking price and does not frame the PH 8.3 as a bargain. What it does offer is an unusually complete feature set and strong sonics, but the commentary stops short of calling it especially good value at this level.
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Authorized dealers for AVM Audio Ovation PH 8.3
- Absoulute Audio plus Video — in-store — Aiken, South Carolina, United States (website)
- 110Hz — online and in-store — Kielce, Województwo świętokrzyskie, Poland (website)
- Absolute Sound (SG) — in-store — Singapore, Singapore (website)
- Alpha High End — online and in-store — Brasschaat, Vlaams Gewest, Belgium (website)
- Ambiance Concert — in-store — Angers, Pays de la Loire, France (website)
- Atelier 13 Audio — in-store — Forest Hills, Tennessee, United States (website)
- Audio Artisans — in-store — Bozeman, Montana, United States (website)
- Audio Influence — online and in-store — Fitzroy North, Victoria, Australia (website)
- Audio Magic - EU — online and in-store — Wola, Województwo mazowieckie, Poland (website)
- Audio Video Integration — in-store — San Rafael, California, United States (website)
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