EAR Yoshino Phonobox Tube Phono Stage

The final phono stage from a valve-amp legend

The EAR Yoshino Phonobox Tube Phono Stage is a valve phono preamplifier designed by Tim de Paravicini, the last product he completed before his passing. It handles both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, using matching transformers rather than active circuitry to set up an MC pickup. Built around three 13D16 valves in a solid metal chassis, it is a single-unit phono stage sold on its own.

Why You'll Love It

• One stage for every cartridge. A single input accepts both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, so you can change pickups without buying another phono stage.
• Valve sound, low noise. EAR quotes a low noise floor in both MM and MC modes, addressing the hum and hiss often associated with tube phono stages.
• Choose the version that suits your system. It is offered in black or chrome, with MM/MC or MM-only input and fixed or variable output. The black MM/MC output-control version is usually in stock, with other configurations made to order over roughly 6 to 8 weeks.

Under the Hood

• Purpose-built valves. Three 13D16 tubes, a variant designed specifically for EAR Yoshino, sit at the heart of the circuit, with ECC83 valves as an option.
• Transformer MC matching. Rather than an active gain stage, the Phonobox uses matching transformers to load moving coil cartridges, a simpler path in keeping with de Paravicini's design approach.
• Built to last. A robust metal chassis, an Alps Blue Velvet control and substantial rubber feet make up a solid, low-fuss unit rated at 20 watts consumption.

CHT Insider Verdict

The Phonobox is a considered, single-box valve phono stage that carries real design pedigree, and its dual MM/MC input makes it flexible for turntable owners who like to swap cartridges. The output-control versions add a level control on the output, which is useful for running straight into a power amplifier. Black with MM/MC and output control is the version EAR keeps stocked, with other finishes and configurations built to order.

Pro Tip: If you plan to feed a power amplifier or active speakers directly, choose the Output Control version so you can set level without a separate preamplifier; for a system that already has a preamp with volume, the Fixed Output version keeps the signal path simplest.