90%
YBA GENESIS PH1 PHONO PREAMPLIFIER
The PH1 caters for MM, low output MC and high output MC cartridges. Never connect MM and MC cartridges at the same time as there will be a possibility with the high amplification factor that some noise could occur at the output stage. The selector control on the front panel of the PH1 has only two options(MM or MC) even though it accepts high output MC. The circuitry has been designed so that it will automatically sense which type of moving coil cartridge is being used and settings will adjust accordingly provided the correct selection is made from the toggle switch on the rear panel.
Read the Stereonet reviews : Praise indeed for Genesis phono stage
The power supply of the PH1 is provided by 10 NCR18650 batteries charged via a 24V power adaptor. The PH1 must be fully charged prior to use, a simple process with all necessary information clearly displayed. In full use conditions, the batteries can be charged up to 10,000 times with each full charge lasting for up to 8 hours.
Instructions for use are simple but need to be recognised as this product is battery driven. The PH1 needs to be fully charged before first use – it is a simple process clearly explained in the manual. Be aware that as long as the power adaptor is plugged in and switched on, then as the battery level drops during use, it will automatically recharge. When not in use, disconnect the power adaptor and turn off the PH1 using the switch located on the underside of the unit. The PH1 should be regularly switched on and the power adaptor connected so that the battery level can be checked. If it is low, it should be recharged. If it remains on but not in use, then the batteries will discharge over time.
Yves-Bernard André has designed a specific moving coil transformer for use in the PH1. Because of its design, the YBA transformer is uniquely suited to meet the different characteristics of moving coil cartridges. It allows for the finest details of a reading to be highlighted at a very high level.
The power supply of the PH1 is provided by 10 NCR18650 batteries charged via a 24V power adaptor. The PH1 must be fully charged prior to use, a simple process with all necessary information clearly displayed. In full use conditions, the batteries can be charged up to 10,000 times with each full charge lasting for up to 8 hours.
Instructions for use are simple but need to be recognised as this product is battery driven. The PH1 needs to be fully charged before first use – it is a simple process clearly explained in the manual. Be aware that as long as the power adaptor is plugged in and switched on, then as the battery level drops during use, it will automatically recharge. When not in use, disconnect the power adaptor and turn off the PH1 using the switch located on the underside of the unit. The PH1 should be regularly switched on and the power adaptor connected so that the battery level can be checked. If it is low, it should be recharged. If it remains on but not in use, then the batteries will discharge over time.
Yves-Bernard André has designed a specific moving coil transformer for use in the PH1. Because of its design, the YBA transformer is uniquely suited to meet the different characteristics of moving coil cartridges. It allows for the finest details of a reading to be highlighted at a very high level.
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YBA GENESIS PH1 PHONO PREAMPLIFIER
The YBA Genesis PH1 delivers striking battery-powered transparency, using onboard rechargeable cells to strip mains-related grain and expose a clean, open soundstage. Hi‑Fi Choice and Jay Garrett / StereoNET both praise its neutral, detailed presentation: tight, well-timed bass, articulate mids and a smooth, non‑fatiguing treble that yields wide, three-dimensional imaging.
Internally the PH1 pairs op‑amp MM circuitry with a mu‑metal‑shielded MC transformer, and offers MM/MC inputs, balanced XLR plus RCA outputs and an informative OLED battery/cartridge display. The compact black aluminium and acrylic chassis is neatly finished. Ideal for vinyl enthusiasts seeking revealing, musical playback, the Genesis PH1 is frequently described as delivering high‑end sensibilities for its price bracket.
Pros
- Battery-powered design cuts mains-related noise, producing an exceptionally low-noise, transparent presentation.
- Neutral, detailed and three-dimensional sound with strong imaging, dynamics and balanced tonal character (no bass bloom or harsh treble).
- Flexible connectivity and ergonomic controls: dedicated MM/MC handling, balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, plus an OLED battery/cartridge indicator.
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Cons
- Battery system requires careful management and periodic cycling; roughly eight hours of listening per full charge and potential for 'memory' issues if not charged correctly.
- Finish and cosmetics are competent but described as less glossy or flashy than some rival designs.
Transparency
92/100
Reviewers repeatedly praised the PH1's low-noise presentation and lack of fog, crediting its battery operation for stripping mains-related edge and grain. Hi-Fi Choice notes a clean, open delivery with no obvious nasties and Stereonet highlights clarity, openness and focus; the spec'd 90dB A-weighted SNR and double mu-metal shielding support this. No mentions of hum/hiss appeared in reviews, just consistent comments about removed noise and expanded clarity.
Sound Quality
90/100
Listeners found the PH1 expansive, authoritative and lively, with good punch and timing (noted bass weight and drive on rock material). Reviews highlight life, vibrancy and improved contrast once mains-related grain is removed, suggesting strong micro- and macro-dynamic retrieval.
Cartridge Compatibility
84/100
The unit provides both MM and MC inputs (reviews and specs list MM: 47kΩ / 45dB and MC: 47kΩ / 50dB gain), so it supports common cartridge types. However, reviewers do not describe user-accessible adjustable loading/gain controls and ergonomics indicate rechargeable-battery operation is the headline feature rather than advanced loading options; given the lack of explicit adjustable loading in the reviews, this scores as a capable but somewhat limited MM/MC implementation.
Build Quality
88/100
Build is described as well finished with a tasteful, compact chassis, OLED display and balanced XLR plus RCA outputs. Internally it uses mu-metal shielding and a special transformer design and runs on a 10-cell 18650 rechargeable pack, all pointing to thoughtful engineering even if the finish is 'good rather than flashy' per Hi-Fi Choice.
Value for Money
92/100
Both reviewers place the PH1's pricing (listed from £1,800) in a positive light — StereoNET calls it 'could essentially make it a bargain' and Hi-Fi Choice says it 'gives a taste of high-end' — indicating the performance is well justified at this price point. The combination of battery operation, excellent sound, and features (XLR/RCA, OLED) supports a strong value conclusion.
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