It's all about the phase
"A brand from Japan with a totally focussed drive to minimise phase error."
About the EA-2000
This completely dual-mono phono amplification system has few peers. It is comprised of six half-width components; two MC step-up transformers, two phono amplifier modules and two mains power supples. Phasemation's objectives with the EA-2000 was to remove all possible remaining flaws in the 'EA' design concept, however small, to achieve the most exact and musical phono reproduction possible. The system employs the same principles of zero-feedback and valve LCR RIAA equalisation but with further benefits gained with the dual mono design of both the amplifier modules and their independent power supplies. And the system also employs specifically matched MC stepup transformers – Phasemation say that the matching of the exact transformer parameters with the input stages and EQ in the phono amplifier modules has released another significantly jump in performance.
The EA-2000 represents a serious investment in any vinyl replay system. But rest assured, the results are serious too.
Tech Insight
Phasemation have been specialising in MC step-up transformers for many years. The EA-2000T transformers used in this system are based on the T-2000 model, but tailored to specifically match the EA-2000EQ. One of the critical features of the T-2000/EA-2000T is the construction of the multi-layered casework panels. According to Phasemation, their steel, copper and induction shield layers provide an exceptional level of protection from magnetic field contamination of the critical MC transformer windings housed within.
Specifications
Inputs MM/MC.
Sensitivity 2mV/0.1mV.
Suitable Cartridge Output Impedance 47kΩ or less/1.5 - 40Ω.
Gain 40 dB/66 dB.
Input Conversion S/N Ratio –120dBV/–140dBV.
Rated Output Voltage 200 mV (1kHz).
RIAA Curve Tolerance±0.5dB (20 - 20kHz).
Power Consumption 35W per channel.
Dimensions – 2xT: 214×118×265 (WHD), 2×EQ: 214×118×368 (WHD), 2xPS 214x118×352 (WHD).
Weight each – T: 4.5kg, EQ: 6.1kg, PS: 7.8kg.
Matching & Setup
Clearly there is a lot to consider with setup requirements for a six box phono stage. Shelf space is the big issue, but at least the units are half-width so you can fit two boxes per shelf. And it's worth considering the relative sensitivities of these boxes to interference and vibration so we would recommend putting the power supply modules together and on a lower shelf and the transformers at the top of your stack if you can. Keep phono cables from turntable to the transformers away from everything else if you can too.
In terms of matching, then it is worth you having a chat with us regarding your cartridge or likely cartridge choices downstream. The Phasemation machines are flexible when it comes to the physics, but really with an investment of this level, careful analysis of a cartridge's sonic traits is important to ensure they are a good match in terms of maximising all of the capability of the combination. The system downstream should of course also equal the level of performance on offer from such a phono stage.