Clearaudio Balance Reference Phono, Black

The Clearaudio Balance Reference Phono is a phono preamplifier with two completely separate inputs for MM and MC cartridges, its own level control and remote control – here in the black anodised aluminium housing.

Two independent phono stages in one unit means two turntables or two cartridges stay permanently connected, and switching is a button press away. Balanced via XLR or classic via RCA – both inputs give you the choice. And because the output level is adjustable, the phono stage doubles as the complete preamp for your power amp.

Why the Balance Reference Phono?

Most phono stages tie you down: one input, one connection type, one cartridge. The Balance Reference turns that around. Both inputs can be switched individually between Moving Magnet and Moving Coil, both accept RCA and XLR, and matching to the cartridge is no mystery: on the MC side you choose between 50 ohms and 10 kilohms, on the MM side you can add up to 400 picofarads of capacitance. That Clearaudio throws in a remote-controlled volume and two headphone outputs on top is almost excessive – but the pleasant kind.

What you get

A phono stage that grows with your collection instead of capping it. Two cartridges running in parallel, one control for the level, two 6.3 mm jacks for late at night when the rest of the house is asleep. And because the output is adjustable, you can go straight to a power amp or active speakers – the line preamp in between is free to retire.

Who is the Balance Reference Phono for?

For vinyl listeners running two turntables or MM and MC side by side, who like to wire balanced, and who build their system consistently around the record. Bottom line: if you have exactly one cartridge and will never switch, you're paying for reserves that sit unused on the shelf – the Balance V2 is enough for that. And if you also want to switch between a streamer, CD player or tuner alongside your turntable, you still need a line preamp: the Balance Reference accepts phono signals exclusively.

Our verdict

One of the most flexible phono stages in its class: two independent inputs, free choice of connection and cartridge, cleanly documented matching, level control and headphones included. Awarded the Golden Ear 2024 by stereoplay. Which cartridge belongs on which input, and whether XLR or RCA is the quieter connection in your setup, is something we work out at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil in a short conversation.

Technical data

• Type: phono preamplifier for MM and MC, balanced design
• Phono inputs: 2 completely separate inputs, each individually switchable between MM and MC
• Input connections: 2× RCA (unbalanced) and 2× XLR (balanced)
• Gain: +46 dB (MM) / +66 dB (MC), each at 1 kHz
• Input impedance/capacitance MM: 50 kΩ / 50 pF, switchable +150 pF, +270 pF, +400 pF
• Input impedance MC: selectable 50 Ω, 100 Ω, 500 Ω, 1000 Ω, 5 kΩ, 10 kΩ
• RIAA accuracy: ± 0.1 dB (20 Hz – 100 kHz)
• Total harmonic distortion: < 0.001 % (IEC A)
• Outputs: RCA (unbalanced) and XLR (balanced)
• Output level: adjustable (volume control at the unit and via remote), max. > 12 V
• Output impedance: 150 Ω (XLR) / 75 Ω (RCA)
• Headphone output: present – 2× 6.3 mm jack
• Controls: volume and input selection at the unit and via remote
• Power supply: external power supply, 2× ± 18 V DC (power supply 2× ± 21 V DC)
• Power consumption: approx. 12 W in operation, < 0.5 W standby
• Dimensions (W × H × D): approx. 240 × 78 × 145 mm (preamp)
• Weight: approx. 2.9 kg (preamp) + approx. 2.2 kg (power supply)
• Housing/finish: aluminium, black
• Warranty: 3-year manufacturer's warranty from registration
• Scope of delivery: preamp, external power supply with connecting cable, remote control

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect two turntables at the same time?

Yes. The Balance Reference Phono has two completely separate phono inputs. Two turntables or two cartridges stay permanently connected, switching happens at the unit or via remote. There's no more unplugging cables, and each input can be matched independently to its cartridge.

Does it suit MM and MC cartridges?

Yes, both. Each of the two inputs can be individually set to Moving Magnet or Moving Coil. Gain is 46 dB for MM and 66 dB for MC. For MC, six impedance values from 50 ohms to 10 kilohms are available, for MM there's additional capacitance up to 400 picofarads.

Do I need an additional preamplifier?

Not for vinyl: the Balance Reference Phono controls the output level itself and can drive a power amp or active speakers directly. Once other sources like a streamer or CD player join in, you'll need a line preamp – the Balance Reference accepts phono signals exclusively.

Can I connect headphones to it?

Yes. Two 6.3 mm jack sockets sit on the unit, controlled by the same volume knob as the system. That lets you enjoy records at full quality when the speakers need to stay quiet – even two people at once, with no separate headphone amp needed.

What's the difference between the black and silver versions?

Only the surface. The black anodised and the silver aluminium housing are technically and sonically identical, with all connections and settings the same on both. So you decide based on looks and what matches the rest of your rack.

Why buy the Balance Reference Phono from HD Zürisee?

Because we know the rest of the chain: which cartridge belongs on which input, which impedance suits your MC, whether XLR or RCA plays more quietly in your room. As an authorised Clearaudio dealer, Andy and Mauri handle connection and setup and take care of the warranty properly. Call us at +41 44 680 22 00, WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls), or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Goes well with

Find matching cartridges under Cartridges, the turntable under Turntables and the matching arm under Tonearms. To see the whole analogue corner at once, start with All About Vinyl.