Audiolab
PPA7
Audiolab launches PPA7 phono stage with Bluetooth output
The PPA7 is Audiolab’s first standalone phono stage in almost two decades. It is offered in black or silver finishes and includes a remote handset.
Georg S. Kuklick
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Audiolab has introduced a standalone phono preamplifier with wireless audio transmission. The Audiolab PPA7 supports Bluetooth 5.3 and aptX HD for compatible headphones and speakers, with a UK recommended retail price of £499 and availability scheduled for late October 2026.
Separate stereo RCA inputs serve moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges, with adjustable loading for each type. The moving-magnet input has an impedance of 47kΩ and selectable capacitance of 100pF or 220pF, while the moving-coil input offers resistive loading of 100Ω or 330Ω. Gain is adjustable by ±6dB in 1dB steps, reaching a maximum of 52dB for moving-magnet cartridges and 66dB for moving-coil cartridges.
The RCA analogue outputs offer fixed and variable modes, with the onboard volume control allowing direct connection to a power amplifier in variable mode. A front-mounted 6.35mm headphone output is driven by a current-feedback amplifier and supports headphone loads from 20Ω to 600Ω. Internally, the unit converts its 12V DC input to a symmetrical, regulated ±8.5V supply, using separate positive and negative regulation stages.
A USB-C output provides vinyl recording at 16-bit or 24-bit resolution, with sample rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz. The digital output level is adjustable from -12dB to +3dB. A separate USB-A data input is provided for future firmware updates, and the PPA7 also has 12V trigger input and output connections.
The aluminium case measures 208 × 56 × 180mm. A 33mm OLED display and two multifunction rotary controls form the user interface.
Key specifications
Product type | Standalone phono preamplifier |
|---|---|
Cartridge inputs | Separate stereo RCA inputs for moving-magnet and moving-coil cartridges |
MM input impedance | 47kΩ |
MM input capacitance | Selectable 100pF or 220pF |
MC resistive loading | Selectable 100Ω or 330Ω |
Gain adjustment | ±6dB in 1dB steps |
Maximum gain | MM: 52dB; MC: 66dB |
Analogue outputs | RCA; fixed or variable output modes |
Headphone connection | Front-mounted 6.35mm output |
Headphone amplifier topology | Current feedback |
Headphone output power | Up to 600mW, claimed |
Supported headphone impedance | 20–600Ω |
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