After many years of success and esteem, the Nagra VPS is replaced by the CLASSIC PHONO. The VPS, itself inspired by the legendary Nagra PL-P, was a very respected phono stage. The VPS was the base we used and also the obvious product to use as a benchmark.

Design

The design includes Nagra’s custom input transformers and a Class A tube setup with four triodes. It has two inputs: one for MC/MM and one for MM, with adjustable cartridge loading. Users can choose RIAA, TELDEC, or COLUMBIA curves, with support for mono cartridges and a mono selector for stereo-cutter mono records. Gain is adjustable from 38 to 64 dB. A built-in silent power supply reduces noise and can be upgraded to a Classic PSU.

Inputs

The MC input features Nagra’s custom transformer with a special magnetic core from the HD PREAMP. Front panel gain selection offers easy adjustment: 54 or 64 dB for MC and 8 or 48 dB for MM cartridges. Extensive settings ensure precise matching with your cartridge collection and records.

Vacuum tubes

The CLASSIC PHONO exclusively uses tubes as active electronic components.

2x E88CC/ 6922
1x ECC81/B739
1x ECC83/B759
All the tubes are going through and individual selection by Nagra Laboratory.

Sound and impression

The first notes strike with density and extension. The CLASSIC PHONO impresses immediately with its sheer quality. The linear phase response is clearly audible with a very faithful stereo and 3D image. The timbre of the instruments is extremely natural. After a few minutes of critical listening you simply want to rediscover your music collection and enjoy it!

The CLASSIC PSU power supply, derived from the HD line, will take the CLASSIC PHONO to new heights.

Technical Specifications

Electronics

Transformer Ratio: 16 dB
Tube Stage Gain (at 1 kHz, no load):

• MM Input:
  • Gain Switch Low: 37.7 dB
  • Gain Switch High: 47.7 dB
• MC Input:
  • Gain Switch Low: 53.9 dB
  • Gain Switch High: 63.9 dB
    Frequency Response:
• 20 Hz – 50 kHz:
  • +0.6 dB (RIAA, TELDEC)
  • -0.2 dB (COLUMBIA LP)
• 100 Hz – 50 kHz: ±0.2 dB
  Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > -82 dB (ASA A) 
  Total Harmonic Distortion (THD+N): 
  Crosstalk: > -75 dB (typically > -82 dB)
  Interchannel Phase: < 4° (typically 0.35°) @ 20 kHz
  Output Level: 1 V RMS for 0 dB, tolerates up to 2 V RMS
  Output Impedance: < 500 Ω (typically 470 Ω)
  Vacuum Tubes (Selected by Nagra Laboratory):
• 2x E88CC/6922
• 1x ECC81/B739
• 1x ECC83/B759
  Power Supply:
• Internal, 100–240 V~ ±10% / 50-60 Hz
• Compatible with optional CLASSIC PSU (12.6 V / 1.5 A)
• Standby Power Consumption: < 1 W
• Max Power Consumption: 35 W
• Mains Fuse: T 500 mA FST, 5 x 20 mm, 250 V

General

Operating Temperature: +15°C to +35°C (59°F to 95°F)
Operating Environment: Indoor only, IP30 rated
Weight: 5.4 kg (11.9 lbs) (Classic Phono unit with 1x MC/MM input and 1x MC input)
Dimensions:

• 350 x 277 x 80 mm (13.8 x 10.9 x 3.2 inches)
• Depth extends to 390 mm (15.4 inches) from modulometer to connectors
• Add 30 mm (1.2 inches) with a VFS plate