.bh-wrap{max-width:1100px;margin:0 auto;padding:1rem 1.25rem;line-height:1.6} .bh-eyebrow{letter-spacing:.08em;text-transform:uppercase;font-size:.8rem;opacity:.7} .bh-title{font-size:3rem;margin:.25rem 0 1rem} .bh-sub{font-style:italic;margin:0 0 1.25rem} .bh-grid{display:grid;gap:1.25rem} @media(min-width:900px){.bh-grid{grid-template-columns:1.3fr .7fr;align-items:start}} .bh-section{margin:2rem 0} .bh-bullets{list-style:disc;padding-left:1.25rem;margin:.5rem 0 0} .bh-specs{width:100%;border-collapse:collapse} .bh-specs th,.bh-specs td{border:1px solid #e5e7eb;padding:.65rem;vertical-align:top} .bh-specs th{width:42%;background:#f8fafc;text-align:left} .bh-badge{display:inline-block;border:1px solid #e5e7eb;border-radius:999px;padding:.2rem .6rem;margin:.15rem .3rem 0 0;font-size:.85rem} .bh-badges{margin-top:.5rem} .bh-faq details{border:1px solid #e5e7eb;border-radius:.5rem;padding:0.75rem 1rem;margin:.5rem 0;background:#fafafa} .bh-faq summary{font-weight:600;cursor:pointer} .bh-note{font-size:.95rem;opacity:.9} Esoteric Esoteric E-02 Balanced Phonostage Preamplifier Flagship fully balanced phono stage • Dual-mono construction • MC/MM support with precision loading • ES-LINK Analog compatible Meet the E-02 The Esoteric E-02 Balanced Phonostage Preamplifier is a flagship, fully balanced phono stage engineered to amplify extremely low-level cartridge signals with exceptional quietness, stability, and dynamic headroom. Balanced circuitry runs from input to output, and a true dual-mono architecture keeps left and right channels electrically independent for outstanding separation. From nuanced micro-detail to explosive transients, the E-02 is built to reveal what your cartridge and vinyl front end are truly capable of delivering. Fully Balanced Circuit Design Dual-Mono Power Supply MC XLR Input + 2 RCA Inputs 9-Step Cartridge Loading DEMAG + MONO + Subsonic Filter ES-LINK Analog Compatible Designed with vibration control in mind, including a highly rigid aluminum enclosure and Esoteric’s proprietary pinpoint feet. Highlights & Benefits Reference-level gain with low noise — Dual-mono power and fully balanced amplification help preserve delicate cartridge information. Flexible input options — One XLR input (MC dedicated) plus two RCA inputs for convenient multi-arm / multi-table systems. Dial-in cartridge matching — Nine impedance positions: MC 10/50/100/200/300/500/1k/10k Ω and MM 47k Ω. Practical vinyl tools — DEMAG function, MONO switch, and a 17 Hz subsonic filter help optimize real-world playback. System integration — Switchable analog outputs (XLR, RCA, and ES-LINK Analog) support both conventional and Esoteric ecosystems. Built for serious analog systems — The Esoteric E-02 Balanced Phonostage Preamplifier is ideal when you want balanced connectivity, precision loading, and a flagship-grade chassis in a dedicated phono stage. Technology & Design Fully balanced signal path — Balanced circuits from the input stage through the final output stage help minimize noise interference and maintain composure with ultra-low MC signals. NF-CR type RIAA amplifier — Designed for accurate RIAA equalization with minimal negative feedback and wide dynamic headroom. ESOTERIC-HCLD output buffer — A high-current buffer approach derived from Esoteric’s flagship preamp design, built for fast, confident drive and dynamic expression. Preset-friendly operation — Cartridge impedance, filter, and mono settings can be saved per input for quick switching. Mechanical refinement — Highly rigid chassis construction and vibration-control details support stable performance in revealing analog systems. For listeners building a no-compromise vinyl front end, the Esoteric E-02 Balanced Phonostage Preamplifier focuses on the fundamentals: low noise, accurate EQ, cartridge matching, and robust output drive. FAQ — E-02 How do I choose the best load setting for my MC cartridge? Start with the cartridge manufacturer’s recommendation. If you are unsure, begin around 100 Ω, then fine-tune toward lower values for a denser tonal balance or higher values for a more open presentation. What does the DEMAG function do? Play a record for roughly 30 seconds with DEMAG enabled to help reduce unintended magnetization in cartridge coils or step-up transformers and restore intended performance. When should I use the subsonic filter? If you see woofer pumping or hear low-frequency rumble from warped records, footfalls, or setup resonance, engage the 17 Hz filter to improve stability and headroom. Why Buy From Us System-matching support for cartridges, tonearms, and step-up transformers Guidance on balanced vs. unbalanced system integration Careful packing and setup assistance as needed Long-term support for gain/loading optimization Esoteric E-02 Balanced Phonostage Preamplifier Specs Product Type Fully balanced phonostage preamplifier (MM/MC) Inputs 1 × XLR (MC dedicated), 2 × RCA (MM/MC) Outputs XLR / ES-LINK Analog (1 pair), RCA (1 pair); output switching supported Cartridge Load Impedance MC: 10/50/100/200/300/500/1k/10k Ω; MM: 47k Ω RIAA Accuracy ±0.2 dB (10 Hz–20 kHz) THD 0.007% (1 kHz, MM, rated output) Rated Output Level RCA: 2 Vrms; XLR: 4 Vrms Gain RCA: MM 40 dB / MC 66 dB; XLR: MM 46 dB / MC 72 dB Input Sensitivity MM: 20 mV; MC: 1 mV (1 kHz, rated output) Maximum Input Level MM: 100 mV; MC: 4.8 mV (at 0.1% distortion) S/N Ratio MM: 100 dB; MC: 80 dB (IHF-A) Subsonic Filter 17 Hz (−6 dB/octave) Dimensions (W × H × D) 445 mm × 131 mm × 377 mm (17 5/8" × 5 1/4" × 14 1/4") including protrusions Weight 12.5 kg (27.6 lb) What’s in the Box 1 × Esoteric E-02 Balanced Phonostage Preamplifier Power cord Felt pads Owner’s manual & documentation
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