Clearaudio Nano Phono V2 Phono Preamp, Black

The Clearaudio Nano Phono V2 is a compact phono preamp for MM and MC cartridges with a continuously adjustable output level.

It closes the gap between your turntable and an amplifier that has no phono input, or only a half-hearted one. Mature sound in a footprint the size of a cigarette pack, hand-assembled in Erlangen.

Why the Nano Phono V2?

Short signal paths, a solid aluminium housing against interference, and a stepless level control that lets you match the output precisely to the rest of your chain — up to 10 volts RMS is available, plenty of headroom even for a reluctant high-level input. Jumpers on the underside let the Nano run on both MM and MC systems, and that's also where you set the load impedance for moving coil cartridges. The switchable subsonic filter keeps the rumble from warped records out of the signal.

What you hear

A fresh, dynamic reproduction with a clean background — 81 dB of signal-to-noise ratio in MM mode is a statement for this size of unit. Bass arrives controlled and punchy, voices and cymbals stay clearly outlined. The Nano colours little: it lets the character of your turntable and cartridge come through, rather than painting over it.

Who is the Nano Phono V2 for?

For anyone setting up their first proper turntable — and for anyone who needs a compact phono stage because there's simply no room left in the rack. To be blunt: for a high-end MC system, the Nano is a size too small; then the Smart Phono V2 or the Basic V2 is the way to go. And if you want to plug in headphones directly, get the headphone version — the Nano Phono V2 has no headphone jack.

Our verdict

A small problem-solver with surprisingly few compromises: flexible enough for almost any cartridge, quiet enough for the softest passages, small enough for any shelf. If your amplifier's built-in phono input has left you underwhelmed so far, this is the least complicated way to change that.

"Small and affordable, very flexible, spot-on both electrically and mechanically, sonically an engaging performer focused on the essentials." — FIDELITY (Michael Vrzal), 2016

Technical data

• Type: phono preamp for MM and MC cartridges
• Gain: 34 dB (MM) / 54 dB (MC)
• Input impedance: 47 kΩ / 220 pF (MM), selectable via jumper (MC)
• Mode: MM/MC switchable via jumper on the underside
• RIAA accuracy: ± 0.4 dB (20 Hz – 50 kHz)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 81 dB (A) for MM / 70 dB (A) for MC
• Distortion: < 0.04%
• Channel separation: > 80 dB at 1 kHz
• Output level: continuously adjustable, max. 10 V RMS at 1 kHz
• Output impedance: 75 Ω
• Headphone output: not available
• Inputs and outputs: unbalanced RCA, ground terminal
• Subsonic filter: switchable via jumper
• Housing: anodised aluminium, black
• Power supply: external power supply, ± 18 V DC / 300 mA
• Power consumption: max. 2.3 W, standby < 0.3 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 85 × 25 × 106 mm
• Weight: approx. 500 g (preamp with power supply)
• Included: phono preamp, external power supply

Frequently asked questions

Where do I connect the Nano Phono V2?

To a free high-level input on your amplifier: AUX, CD, tuner or line. Never to an input already labelled "Phono" — the signal would be amplified a second time there, and the result would sound like anything but music.

MM or MC — how do I switch it?

Via the jumpers on the underside of the housing. That's also where you set the load impedance for moving coil systems and switch on the subsonic filter. Just tell us which cartridge you're running, and we'll give you the right jumper setting straight away.

Can I connect headphones to the Nano Phono V2?

No, the Nano Phono V2 has no headphone output and passes its signal only via RCA to your amplifier. If you want to listen directly through headphones, get the Clearaudio Nano Phono Headphone V2 with a built-in headphone amp and 3.5 mm jack.

What's the adjustable output level good for?

It balances out cartridges and amplifiers with different output levels. The Nano delivers up to 10 volts RMS, steplessly adjustable downward. This lets you work in a sensible range of your volume control, instead of turning it up to the stop on the very first track.

Why buy the Nano Phono V2 from HD Zürisee?

Because a phono stage has to suit the system, not the other way round. We'll work out MM or MC, load impedance and subsonic filter with you before the unit is set up at your place — and our technician Mauri is on hand if anything sticks during setup. Call us: +41 44 680 22 00.

Goes well with

You'll find the right cartridge under cartridges, the right turntable under turntables, and the right arm under tonearms. If you're thinking through the whole chain at once, browse All Vinyl.