ELAC Alchemy PPA-2 MM/MC Phono Preamplifier - Black

A Fully Discrete Phono Stage With Balanced Connections

The ELAC Alchemy PPA-2 is an MM/MC phono preamplifier built around a fully discrete, balanced FET circuit. It's part of ELAC's Alchemy line. That positions it as a step up from mainstream, mass-market phono stages.

A DC servo-controlled output stage removes the need for output capacitors in the signal path. A linear, multi-rail power supply handles power duties. It's built around an internally shielded toroidal transformer, which keeps electrical noise low.

Both moving coil loading and input impedance are continuously variable, not stepped. That lets you dial in a finer match to your cartridge. A preamp with only a handful of fixed settings can't match that precision.

A continuously variable high-pass filter is also built in, useful for taming rumble from a warped record or a turntable sensitive to footfall.

Balanced and Unbalanced, Finely Adjustable

Gain on the single-ended RCA path is 42dB or 60dB. On the balanced XLR path, gain steps up to 48dB or 66dB.

Inputs include two pairs of unbalanced RCA jacks, or one RCA pair and one balanced XLR pair. Moving coil loading is continuously variable from 5 to 999 ohms. Input impedance can be set anywhere from 5 to 1,000 ohms, or fixed at 47 kOhms for moving magnet.

RIAA accuracy is rated within ±0.2dB. Frequency response holds to that same ±0.2dB from 10Hz to 20kHz. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 86dB, with THD+N rated under 0.005%.

It measures 2 by 17.5 by 15 inches, including its rear jacks, and weighs 12 pounds.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Michael Fremer reviewed the PPA-2 for Analog Planet in March 2020. He found that switching to it made a familiar record sound "like a different cartridge." Its attack, he wrote, was "far more supple and timbrally complex."

He summed it up as combining "low noise and ‘see into the stage’ transparency with supple attack, generous sustain and decay." The result, he said, "plays well beyond its price point."

Todd Cooperider reviewed it for HomeTheaterHiFi.com the same month. He wrote that he could set it once to the manufacturer's recommendations and simply enjoy the music. This kind of set-and-forget confidence, he added, "happens rarely."

Who Is This Preamp Best For?

• Collectors who want a finely dialed-in cartridge match. Continuously variable loading and impedance beat a handful of fixed steps.
• Anyone building a balanced XLR system. One RCA and one XLR input pair are available, alongside balanced and unbalanced outputs.
• Listeners who want proven, independently reviewed sound quality. Two named reviewers at respected publications praised its detail and low noise.
• Owners of both MM and MC cartridges. Switchable gain and continuously variable loading cover either type.
• Not the right fit for anyone who wants simple, fixed-step controls. Its continuously variable dials take more care to set than a preamp with a few switch positions.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Run your turntable's cable into the PPA-2's RCA or XLR input, matched to your tonearm's cable. Connect its RCA or XLR output to your amplifier the same way.

Dial in gain, loading, and impedance to match your cartridge's specifications. Use the high-pass filter if your turntable or records need help with rumble.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the ELAC Alchemy PPA-2:

• Turntables with a balanced tonearm output to take advantage of its XLR input
• Phono cartridges, MM or MC, matched to its variable loading
• Preamplifiers with balanced XLR inputs
• Interconnect cables, balanced or unbalanced, to connect its outputs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use balanced XLR connections with this preamp?

Yes. It offers one RCA and one XLR input pair, along with both balanced and unbalanced outputs.

Does the loading adjust in fixed steps?

No. Moving coil loading and input impedance are both continuously variable, rather than switching between preset values.

Can I use this with a moving magnet cartridge?

Yes. A fixed 47 kOhm setting is available for moving magnet cartridges, alongside its adjustable moving coil settings.

What's the warranty?

ELAC covers the PPA-2 with a one-year warranty for the original purchaser.

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Learn More

Want to learn more about matching a phono preamp to your cartridge, balanced connections, or getting the most from your vinyl collection? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.