SMSL High fidelity MM phono Pre-Amplifier

The SMSL PH-1 is an ultra-compact, high-fidelity moving magnet (MM) phono preamplifier.  It stands out for its high 46dB gain—delivering a robust 1Vrms output—and features a built-in headphone amplifier and zero-pop power circuitry.

 

Core Specifications

• Cartridge Support: MM (Moving Magnet) only
• Gain: 46dB
• Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
• THD+N (Distortion): 0.008% (-81dB)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 84dB
• Channel Separation: -77dB @ 1kHz
• Headphone Output: 90mW × 2 @ 32Ω (via 6.35mm jack)
• Power Supply: DC 5V 500mA (USB-powered)
• Dimensions: 94 × 30 × 96 mm
• Weight: 205g

 

Key Features

• Optimized Gain Structure: Many entry-level phono preamps max out at 38dB to 40dB, which can yield low 300mV outputs. The PH-1 pumps this to 46dB for fuller, more dynamic sound.
• Built-In Headphone Amp: Includes a dedicated 6.35mm headphone output for private listening, making it a highly versatile desktop companion.
• Low-Noise Design: The custom circuit incorporates pop-reduction technology so you won't hear a jarring thump when toggling the power.
• Premium Build: Housed in an extremely small, CNC-machined aluminum chassis that resists Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)

 

 

• Using a high-performance MM phono amplifier circuit, with a high gain of 46dB, a distortion level of -81dB is still achieved.
• With pop control circuitry, there is no popping sound when switching on and off.
• Low-noise power supply ensures a quiet sound background.
• Extremely small size for flexible placement.
• Optimized signal path and high sound quality design.

 

 

 

 

Key Technical Specifications

• Cartridge Support: MM (Moving Magnet) only
• Gain: 46 dB
• THD+N (Distortion): 0.008% (-81dB, unweighted)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 84 dB
• Channel Separation: -77 dB @ 1 kHz
• Input Impedance: 47 kΩ
• Headphone Output Power: 90 mW × 2 @ 32Ω
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Inputs: RCA L/R, Ground (GND)
• Outputs: RCA L/R line out, 1× 6.35 mm headphone jack
• Power Supply: DC 5V ⎓ 500mA (via USB Type-C or DC barrel)
• Power Consumption: 1 W
• Dimensions: 94 × 30 × 96 mm (W × H × D)
• Weight: 205 g

 

 

Expert and User Consensus

The SMSL PH-1 has generally received excellent feedback for its price-to-performance ratio.

• Positive Perspectives: Users and reviewers largely praise its whisper-quiet background, dynamic output, and the sheer convenience of the headphone jack.
• Mixed Opinions: While many consider it a "giant killer" that rivals much more expensive units, some audiophiles in the Audio Science Review (ASR) Forum suggest that for those who do not need the headphone amp feature, there are other dedicated phono stages in the slightly higher price bracket (such as Schiit's offerings) that might offer distinct feature sets or modular adjustability.

 

 

How to Connect

1. Turntable to PH-1: Connect your turntable's RCA cables into the RCA L/R inputs. Make sure to attach the ground wire to the grounding post to eliminate hum.
2. PH-1 to Receiver/Amp: Run an RCA cable from the RCA output of the SMSL PH-1 to a standard line-level input (e.g., AUX, CD, or Tape) on your AV receiver or stereo amplifier.
3. Power: Plug the included USB-C power cable into a 5V/500mA USB adapter.

For full setup diagrams and troubleshooting, you can refer to the SMSL PH-1 User Manual or the official PH-1 Documentation.

For a complete product breakdown and to view direct retailer options, you can also check out the listing on Audio Phonic