VTL TP2.5i - Phono Stage

The new TP-2.5i phono stage represents tremendous value for those looking to build a high-resolution analogue system at a reasonable cost. Completely redesigned from its predecessor, the TP-2.5i is derived from our flagship phono stage, the renowned TP-6.5. Offering a large measure of the musicality and resolution of its much more expensive stablemate, the new TP-2.5i offers notable improvements in speed, delicacy, nuance and drive.

Crafted with a similar high-quality construction and finish to VTL’s more expensive models, the TP-2.5i has a sleek silhouette and the features to match. With an eye for flexibility and ease of use, the TP-2.5i offers user-adjustable cartridge impedance and two gain levels, with both MC and MM cartridge inputs. A hybrid JFET/tube circuit is used for the MC stage, and an all-tube circuit is used for the MM stage. Additional features include a front-panel switchable function that is internally selectable between rumble or mono filter. The signal path is deliberately kept simple and straightforward, with audiophile-grade components throughout, for the utmost sonic purity.

With the new TP-2.5i phono stage, we have created an entry to true high-end analog sound. The VTL “family” genes of highly resolved detail, linearity and controlled bass are all there, along with tonal depth, richly textured mids and spaciousness that you won’t find in most phono stages. For the true music lover looking to capture the special magic that only a good analog system can provide, the new TP-2.5i phono stage is an essential component.

The TP2.5i shares the same aesthetic as the TL2.5i preamplifier with an aluminum top and thick sides that mount to a well-braced chassis, offering improved rigidity and reinforcement, as well as a non-ferrous ring around the audio circuitry.

The TP-2.5i also features internal MC StepUp transformers, giving the user maximum flexibility to drive any cartridge. Available settings are Active MC or MC StepUp Transformer, both of which flow through the 12AX7 MM stage, resulting in an all-tube path for the MC Stepup.

The StepUp MC transformers with a 10:1 step-up ratio offer approximately the same gain as the active MC stage, but with much lower gain noise and 100 ohm, 470 ohm and 1 kohm cartridge loading options. Some low gain, low source impedance cartridges sound better with step-up transformers, and the low noise step-up means that a much wider range of cartridges can be used.

To further reduce noise picked up by the step-up transformer, shielding has been added between the power supply and the audio circuitry, and the AC filter components are now moved to the AC power supply side of the shield.

Another design innovation in the TP-2.5i is the use of a shunt regulator in the power supply, which results in a lower noise floor and opens up the soundstage to a wider, more spacious and cohesive soundscape.

The new power transformer in the TP-2.5i is similar to that used in the TL-2.5i and is designed to achieve much lower magnetic radiation using a balanced winding technique.

Multi-stage AC RF filtering ensures complete filtering of AC-borne radio interference and lower circuit noise for a darker, quieter background.

Low noise hybrid JFET/tube active MC stage and pure tube MM stage.
Separate MM and MC inputs.
User switchable MC resistive cartridge loading with 6 settings: 100Ω, 250Ω, 470Ω, 1kΩ, 4k7Ω, 47kΩ.
User selectable MC StepUp loads are 100Ω, 470Ω, 1kΩ.
User selectable MM loads are 10kΩ, 47kΩ, 100kΩ.
User switchable MC gain settings of 62 dB and 56 dB.
Passive RIAA filter,
Buffered output to drive low impedances through any cable.
Zero microprocessor noise.
Power, Rumble/Mono and Mute switches on the front panel.
The Rumble function attenuates up to -3 dB at 10 Hz.
Audiophile-grade components throughout, including REL capacitors. Low radiation power transformer with full AC RF filtering and shielding.