Clearaudio balance V2, phono equalizer

The Clearaudio balance V2 is a high-quality phono equalizer designed for audiophiles who value both simplicity and precision.

Modes: MM (Moving Magnet) / MC (Moving Coil) switching
Subsonic filter: switchable (20Hz, -6dB/oct., per channel)
Gain: MM mode: +46dB, MC mode: +66dB
Input load: MM mode: 47kΩ / 270pF, MC mode: 500Ω / 270pF
RIAA accuracy: ± 0.1dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.001% (IEC A)
Signal-to-noise ratio: MM mode: -78dB, MC mode: -79dB
Outputs: unbalanced (RCA), balanced (XLR), headphone output (Jack 6.3mm)
Inputs: unbalanced (RCA), balanced (XLR)

With its superior performance, the balance V2 phonostage would not be out of place in any professional studio.

How do you balance simplicity with complexity? Clearaudio's balance plus phono stage managed it with ease and now the new balance V2 advances its technologies while losing none of the equilibrium. On the one hand, its design remains elegantly unfussy and its operation effortlessly intuitive. And yet at the same time, the balance V2 offers an array of options to adjust and fine-tune its performance to your particular system and preferences.

The sleek casing is crafted from precision-milled aluminum, which is also available with an anodized black finish. As well as the usual RCA outputs, the balance V2 features balanced XLR outputs and a 6.3 plug headphone output. All RCA inputs and outputs are gold-plated for superior signal transmission.

Besides the manual volume control you can choose between mute and automatic mode by button. A simple switch allows you to choose between moving magnet and moving coil mode. From there, the balance V2 will automatically harmonize with almost any high-end phono cartridge without you needing to make any further adjustments.

High precision RIAA equalization achieves an accuracy of within 0.1 dB, while an optional subsonic filter attenuates any unwanted low frequency noise. A separate power supply in its own aluminum casing keeps any potential unwanted interference at bay. With this small yet high-performance package, Clearaudio effectively balances audiophile-quality technology with a simplicity that can be enjoyed by any music enthusiast. Just take a seat and enjoy.

Mode: MM / MC switchable (at bottom)
Subsonic filter switchable (at bottom)
20Hz (- 6dB / Oct.; on each channel)
Amplification: + 46dB (MM mode)
+ 66dB (MC mode)
Input load: 47kΩ / 270pF (MM mode)
500Ω / 270pF (MC mode)
RIAA accuracy: ± 0.1dB
THD: < 0.001% (IEC A)
Signal to noise ratio: - 78dB (MM mode)
- 79dB (MC mode)
Headroom: +23dB
Max. output voltage: > 12V (at 1kHz)
RIAA: 75μs / 318μs / 3180μs, 2 passive filters
Channel separation: > 92dB (at 1kHz)
Output impedance: 150Ω (balanced XLR)
75Ω (unbalanced RCA)
Inputs: unbalanced (RCA)
balanced (XLR)
Outputs: unbalanced (RCA)
balanced (XLR)
headphone output (Jack 6.3mm)
Power consumption: Max. consumption: 6.6 watts
Standby mode: < 0.3 watts
Off mode: 0.0 watts
Power supply: ± 18V DC
(+ 21V DC external power supply; 1.4m cable length)
Total weight preamplifier: Approx. 2.3 kg
Total weight power supply: Approx. 1.4 kg
Dimensions preamplifier (W/D/H): Approx. 9.44 × 5.71 × (6.22 with RCA) × 2.44 inches
Dimensions preamplifier (W/D/H): Approx. 240 × 145 (158 with RCA) × 62mm
Dimensions power supply (W/D/H): Approx. 9.44 × 5.71 × 2.44 inches
Dimensions power supply (W/D/H): Approx. 240×145×62mm

User manual (EN)