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Vincent PHO-701
The consequent enhancement of our succesful tube phono preamplifier, the PHO-700, has now the possibility to make exact adjustments for the pick-up cartridge through DIP-switches. The result is a considerable increase of the sound quality and the fine resolution, because no compromise has to be done like on many other phono preamplifiers.
Additional we have added a USB port which gives you the possibilty digitize your Vinyl treasures (max. 24 Bit / 192 kHz).
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Vincent PHO-701
The Vincent PHO-701 pairs a tube output follower and a separate power supply in a compact two‑box design, delivering exceptional detail retrieval and musical presence that brings vinyl closer to high‑res digital. Reviewer Chris Groppi of HomeTheaterHifi praises its lively yet controlled bass, transparent midrange and a tube tone that does not over‑color the sound. The PHO-701 excels in dynamics and cartridge compatibility thanks to an unusually wide, externally accessible DIP‑switch loading range and generous MM/MC gain. Build quality is robust for the class, with a machined-aluminum front and practical ergonomics. With USB 24/192 output for archive work and a two-chassis layout, the PHO-701 is ideal for analog enthusiasts who want easy on-the-fly loading optimization and exceptional value without surrendering core performance.
Pros
- Exceptional detail retrieval and musical, transparent presentation with a tube follower that avoids excessive coloration.
- Very wide, externally accessible cartridge-loading range (99–1000 Ω for MC; 15–350 pF for MM) enabling fast on‑the‑fly optimization.
- Two‑chassis design with separate power supply and solid build—machined aluminum front panel and a reassuringly solid feel for the price.
- Includes USB (24‑bit/192 kHz) output for archiving and represents strong bang‑for‑the‑buck performance that rivals more expensive preamps.
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Cons
- May not provide enough gain for very low‑output MC cartridges; a step‑up transformer could be required for some ultra‑low‑output designs.
- USB ADC is always active and ships without bundled software or ADC details, so it’s not a turnkey digitization solution.
- Rear connectors and switches are functional rather than top‑tier, and some buyers may note the unit is manufactured under contract in Asia.
Transparency
89/100
Specifications show solid SNR (MM >81 dB, MC >69 dB) and an adjustable MC loading range; the reviewer reports improved detail retrieval and a lifelike, very clean presentation with no mention of hum or hiss. The tube output stage is noted as present but not imparting overt 'tube' coloration, supporting a perception of low noise and accurate RIAA performance. Given the tube output but absence of noise complaints and decent SNR figures, this scores high though not reference-level for demanding MC applications.
Sound Quality
88/100
With loading optimized the reviewer found bass extension and impact that rivalled high-res digital and described the presentation as lively and punchy. The review concedes that high-res digital retained a slight edge in sharpness/cleanness of bass transients, so dynamics are excellent but not absolutely dominant versus digital. Transient response and rhythmic drive are strong when properly loaded.
Cartridge Compatibility
92/100
Unit supports both MM and MC with MM: 47 kΩ and adjustable capacitance (15–350 pF) and MC loading adjustable from 99–1000 Ω; amplification factors MM 40 dB / MC 60 dB. The reviewer specifically praises an 'exceptional range of cartridge loading settings' and the externally accessible switches that simplify optimization. That level of flexibility earns a very high compatibility score suitable for a wide range of MM and MC cartridges.
Build Quality
88/100
Reviewer calls the build quality 'very good for the price' and notes a nicely machined aluminum front panel; the product uses a separate power supply (dimensions listed separately), which generally aids shielding and noise control. Overall construction and finish are strong for the class, supporting reliable, low-noise operation.
Value for Money
93/100
Reviewer uses strong positive language ('For $799 you get a lot', 'Superb bang for the buck', 'fantastic phono preamp for the price'), explicitly praising the sound relative to cost. Given the performance, flexibility, tube output and build at the stated street price (~$799–$899), the PHO-701 represents a clearly justified purchase in its segment.
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