The Backert Labs “Optik Phono 1.1” phono equalizer for DS Audio cartridges is $11,500.
It includes:
- Two separate RCA inputs, each for a tonearm with stereo or mono DS Audio cartridge
- Input 1/Input 2 switch on front panel to select the desired cartridge
- Automatic circuit fully deactivates the unselected cartridge to ensure longevity
- Gain switch on front panel gives easy access to 2 different levels of gain (standard for most systems: high gain)
- Fully balanced XLR output and single-ended RCA output
- Backert Labs’ famous auto bias circuit for the two 12AU7 (or equivalent) tubes
- Two of our patented GreenForce power supplies in dual-mono configuration for the audio signal, utilizing PTFE capacitors
- A third GreenForce power supply for the light sensor (also known as the “photo-detector”) in the DS Audio cartridge, utilizing V-Cap ODAM capacitors
- American-made 12AU7 or equivalent tubes from the 1960s
- Mute switch on front panel
- Audio signal transmitted via solid-silver wire in key areas of the circuit board
- Unfinished solid brass bottom panel supporting the circuit board for the most natural sound quality, and
- The Gaia feet from IsoAcoustics.
A new level of enjoyment for LPs.
We love vinyl. And although the DS Audio cartridges and the various equalizers available on the market are extraordinary, we saw an opportunity to up the ante in the DS Audio world by applying our patented power supply using PTFE capacitors, and Bob Backert’s general approach to design.
Which generally means, rethink everything.
The result is the Optik Phono 1.1. We think you’re going to like it. Quite a lot.
That Feeling.
Our patented GreenForce power supply uses capacitors that are smaller, higher quality and therefore more nimble than traditional power supplies. The result? Sound that is less capacitor. More signal. A “happening-right-now” performance that propels life and excitement — when it’s called for by the recording — into your listening room.
The astonishing immediacy, the attention-grabbing clarity and open, natural tone… it’s a sound that for the first time, we feel, fully unlocks the genius of DS Audio’s cartridges.
The Optik Phono incorporates the tubed amplification circuit from our award-winning Rhythm linestage preamp to achieve big, dynamic, rhythmic and natural flow. Faithful to the precise tone created by the performers on your favorite recordings.
Easy.
One of the founding principles of our company is that owning a tube preamp should be easy.
Bob Backert includes four different designs in the Optik Phono equalizer that extend tube life. The tubes in the Optik Phono will last so long, it’s virtually the same as owning a solid-state unit.
If you want to experiment with tubes, we make that easy too. The “tube door” on the top panel is easy to remove, allowing you to change tubes anytime you want.
No screws, no fuss. And in the Optik there are only two. Both of them, 12AU7’s. Possibly the most available, easy-to-find tubes in the world.
And yes, if you like the idea of two different DS Audio cartridges (stereo and mono, for example), the Optik Phono doesn’t force you to run two different equalizers. The input selector switch on the Optik’s front panel allows you to choose between two DS Audio cartridges, thoughtfully deactivating the one you’re not currently using.
Two DS cartridges, one equalizer. Easy.
The specific Optik Phono for your system
The Optik’s front face can be silver or black (a no-cost option). The chassis comes in black, but you can have it powder coated in a beautiful red or blue (or other colors, if you like) for $300 more.
No matter how you configure it, the Optik Phono:
- is designed and built by Bob and Gary Backert in Pennsylvania
- includes our famous tube door, giving you instant access to its two tubes
- uses our proprietary gain stage for the highest resolution sound
- is a pure Class A design
- uses no feedback — neither global, nor local
- has a custom-designed toroidal power transformer
- features a beautiful hi-tech exterior with no screws, no fasteners and no ventilation holes visible anywhere, and
- has all the other goodies that come with a Backert Labs preamp.
Try One
You put a lot into your stereo system, and you deserve to have us working on it for you. Decades of amplification and electronic design expertise, and decades of live musical performance experience, working together. That is Backert Labs.
Call one of our dealers, or give us a call directly at (302) 723-7549. It’s time to hear what your records can really do.
- Head back to learn about all our preamps
