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Yes—the Clearaudio Compact Phono supports both moving-magnet (MM) and moving-coil (MC) cartridges, with a pushbutton to switch modes. Its small aluminum chassis measures about 80 × 115 × 26 mm and weighs about 310 g, according to Clearaudio. Whether it will suit a particular cartridge depends on its gain and input loading as well as the MM/MC type.
Will the Clearaudio Compact Phono work with my MM or MC cartridge?
Clearaudio specifies an MM mode with 40 dB of gain and an MC mode with 60 dB of gain, measured at 1 kHz. A pushbutton selects the mode, so changing between MM and MC does not require opening the unit. These are the manufacturer’s specifications, not independent measurements. Clearaudio’s Compact Phono product page gives the product details.
The mode label alone does not establish a precise match. Check the cartridge maker’s recommended load and output level against the preamp’s input loading and gain. Clearaudio lists MM loading as 47 kΩ / 100 pF. For MC, the product page is inconsistent: its descriptive copy says 100 Ω / 100 pF, while its technical table appears to say 100 kΩ / 100 pF. What Hi-Fi?’s launch report also gives 100 Ω / 100 pF, making that the better-supported figure, but anyone whose cartridge match depends on the exact value should confirm it against the current manual or Clearaudio.
What connections and power does it need?
The unit has stereo RCA inputs and stereo RCA outputs. It is an external phono stage: it accepts a cartridge-level signal, applies gain and RIAA equalization, and sends a line-level signal to an audio system. Clearaudio specifies an external ±18 V DC / 300 mA power supply. Confirm that the turntable or system connection and the supplied power arrangement suit your setup before buying.
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How small is the Compact Phono?
Clearaudio lists approximate dimensions of 80 × 115 × 26 mm and a preamplifier weight of about 310 g. It is offered in silver or black aluminum finishes. These measurements make it a compact standalone component, but you will still need room for the RCA cables and power connection. Clearaudio’s claim that it is “small enough to fit discreetly into virtually any setup” is reproduced in What Hi-Fi?’s 17 September 2026 report; that is manufacturer language, not an independent placement test.
What else do the published specifications say?
The following figures are specifications published by Clearaudio, not results from an independent test:
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| Specification | Manufacturer figure |
|---|---|
| RIAA accuracy | ±0.5 dB at 20 Hz–50 kHz |
| Distortion | Below 0.0065% |
| A-weighted signal-to-noise ratio | 76 dB (MM); 65 dB (MC) |
| MC headroom | 29 dB |
| Maximum output | 10 V RMS at 1 kHz |
| Channel separation | Above 80 dB at 1 kHz |
| Output impedance | 100 Ω |
Clearaudio describes the circuit as low-noise and two-stage, and says it includes subsonic and ultrasonic filtering. What Hi-Fi? reports the manufacturer’s stated filter points as 16 Hz for subsonic filtering and 70 kHz for ultrasonic filtering. Those descriptions do not establish how the preamp will sound with a particular cartridge or system.
What should I check before choosing it?
- Cartridge match: Verify your cartridge’s recommended input load and output level against the preamp’s stated loading and gain. Pay particular attention to the unresolved MC loading discrepancy.
- System connections: Check that stereo RCA input and output are appropriate for your turntable and line-level system.
- Placement and power: Allow for the RCA leads and external power supply, not only the compact chassis dimensions.
- Warranty terms: Clearaudio lists a two-year manufacturer warranty and says the warranty card must be registered or returned within two weeks for full coverage. Check the terms that apply in your region.
- Price and availability: What Hi-Fi? reported launch prices of £490, €490 and US$639 on 17 September 2026. These are dated launch figures, not a current quote or a guarantee of availability in any country; check a local dealer for today’s price and stock.
That report also named the Cambridge Audio Duo MC/MM at £299 / $399 / AU$559 and the Graham Slee Reflex M at £540 / $960 / AU$1290 as products in the launch context. Those are publication-reported prices, not verified current offers, and the report does not establish a like-for-like independent listening comparison. As What Hi-Fi?’s general phono-preamp buying guide advises, selection should suit the turntable, cartridge and wider system; it is not a test of the Compact Phono.
Quick Recap
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
