BRiNkmANN Audio ediSoN mkii uPGRAde

Brinkmann Audio has upgraded its Edison phono stage to MkII status, and is offering upgrades to anyone with one of the original Edisons. The Brinkmann Audio Edison phono stage has three unbalanced RCA inputs, two of which have XLR connections, with each one independently adjustable for gain (in 16 steps from 49dB to 73dB) and impedance (in 12 steps from 50Ω to 47kΩ). Features include selectable mono/stereo operation, phase control (normal/inverted) and remote control. Circuitry is hybrid, using selected bipolar transistors and NOS Telefunken valves, with RIAA equalisation implemented partially as plate load and partially as feedback loop. ‘ In its Mk II incarnation, Edison’s RIAA EQ network has been completely re-designed as a result of Helmut Brinkmann’s relentless fine-tuning,’ said Matthew Sweet of Audio Fidelity, which distributes Brinkmann in Australia. ‘ Nearly every capacitor has been updated with a new value or type, yielding increased accuracy and linearity, taking its performance to a transcendent level with a greatly improved output stage and increased valve stability, creating a lower noise floor, fostering more detail and allowing the listener to experience a closer musical connection.’

Owners of the original version can upgrade their unit for $4,000. The new Edison MkII is also available in Australia and retails for $16,500 (RRP).