The Balance Plus is an extremely quiet, high-resolution phono stage capable of handling both moving coil and moving magnet phono cartridges. It can be run in fully balanced mode using the XLR input/output, or in true single-ended mode using the RCA input/output. Additionally, it has the option of being run directly into a power amplifier via a high-resolution attenuator located on the faceplate, along with mute and fixed/variable selectors. This attenuator is also connected to an independent, high-quality headphone amplifier. The circuit board uses high-quality parts for all aspects of the signal path, and is housed in a resonance-free, CNC-machined aluminum chassis that protects against unwanted vibrations. The external power supply is housed in an identically-sized aluminum chassis. The Clearaudio Accu Plus battery power supply may be added at any time, allowing the Balance Plus to run on pure DC power for even greater performance.
“Incredibly quiet and with full balanced ins and outs… breathtaking power and passion, without the need to turn the volume particularly high.” – Hi-Fi World
Optional Accu Plus Power Supply
Housed in a matching aluminum chassis, the Accu Plus is a sophisticated DC power supply upgrade designed exclusively for the Clearaudio Basic Plus and Balanced Plus phono stages. The Accu Plus provides these phono stages with pure, clean DC battery power. Battery power guarantees that no noise or distortion from the AC mains supply can pollute the delicate phono signal. The innovative circuitry of the Accu Plus monitors user-replaceable NiMH batteries, charging them when necessary for optimal performance.
“Those seeking the last work in low noise and isolation, should also consider the Clearaudio Accu Plus, an outboard NiMH battery supply, as a worthy option.” – Neil Gader, The Absolute Sound
Gain/Amplification at 1 kHz 58 dB (MC)
Input impedance: 500Ω / 270pF MC
MM/MC Input: only MC-mode
RIAA (75 µs / 318 µs / 3180 µs) yes
RIAA Accurancy ± 0.05 dB
Distortion: 0.004 %
Signal/Noise ratio: > 80 dB (MC)
Channel separation: > 100 dB
Maximum Output: 12 V (1 kHz)
Subsonic Filter: --
Power Voltage: ± 25 V DC
Outputs: symetrical (XLR) assymmetrical (RCA)
Weight: 1.6 kg
Dimensions in mm: 175 x 130 x 60
Absolute phase balance: L/R