Douk Audio T9 Vacuum Tube Phono Preamp Stereo Turntable Preamplifier with Hea...

I looked around at other small tube amps for phono stage, but decided to not spend more money for something brand name in glitzy packaging. I was actually pretty shocked at the sound quality from this pre-amp, and in my opinion you would have to spend 10 times as much to find something that sounded 10% better. Incredibly easy to set up. Like most people, I sue an MM (moving magnet) cartridge on my phono, but it's nice to have the MC (moving coil) option instead. It came with the MC selected on the back, so just make sure to move the switch over to MM before using, unless you are one of those rare hard core audiophiles that is using MC. Sound is fluid and transparent, and no detectible noise or harshness whatsoever. Nice to have the additional bass and treble on the preamp for output so that you don't have to adjust from your normal settings on the power amp. Can change light colors to amber or green or none depending on preference as you see in video. Kind of sad that the cell phone can't capture the sound quality, but trust me it is great. You will not be disappointed with this little gem. Longevity and durability unknown at this point, but the build is so simple (in audio: simple = better - less signal path loss) I would expect it to last many years, with perhaps a tube change at some point if they wear out. But that would be years down the road. My main integrated amp did not have a phono stage, which is why I needed this. I use a Technics SL-5300 from '78 or '79 with a Signet TK7ea cartridge and 5ea stylus for those interested in the technicals. Sounds lush.

This headphone amp/phono preamp is pretty impressive for its price. It sounds great with my turntable and phone plugged into it, it just gives the bass and mid-range alot of body, and its treatment of shrill highs and treble is extremely pleasant. It really feels like it gives alot of sound stage to just about whatever you feed it. Even though its only getting an analog signal, it really helps give the audio coming from digital devices alot of space and room to breathe. The tube amp sort of has a slightly audible fuzz sound that is akin to tape hiss from the tubes working their magic. Its not like a bad ground, although this will buzz if you dont have it grounded well. it comes with a ground wire to attach to your turntable, so no worries. It might still have a little buzz in the phono stage after grounding, which isnt annoying and hardly audible, but I think thats mainly because most my audio equipment is all stuffed together where it could get electromagnetic interference.

I like that this was easy top set up. I have it plugged in my Fisher RS-1052 receiver vis the aux port. I connected both my AR turntable and my computer external sound port. I really enjoy the sound difference, the controls on the front really give you flexibility in customizing the sound. Start out on lowest settings as this really pumps up bass and treble. The question of "does this really add that warm tube sound to your system", I have to say yes when you get it adjusted to that sweet spot - everyone is different. I am thoroughly enjoying it, I have owned this since August 2024, it is now Dec 2024. I use it everyday and it seems reliable and of good quality and I love the sound.

I own a rather expensive Pioneer Elite SC-LX501 AV receiver and recently purchased a Fluance turntable and invested in vinyl. My receiver has a built-in phono pre-amp but I opted for this one from Douk Audio after being a bit disappointed in my overall sound quality. Well, money well spent! Looks cool, sounds great, and the volume, bass and treble controls are very nice features to have to shape your sound quickly and easily. You will want to ground it, as well as your turntable.

Great Product

The preamp looks cool to be sure, and it seems to be built with some quality. While it doesn't sound bad at all, I give it 4 stars instead of five because I think the Fosi I was using before sounds slightly better.

Yes, it runs hot, but the tube lamps bounce with the beat. How cool is that? Front face switches are great, and it is easy to adjust to get the right balance between pre-amp and power amp, which you must do to get everything singing together. Have fun. Can handle both MC and MM cartridges, unlike most. Lots of power for a little unit. I have three others that did not make the grade, and I am currently using this one.

No audiophile, but this phono pre amp makes my vinyl sound so much better. I actually didn't think I needed but you know the hobby! Thought it sounded fine with the built in turntable preamp. Decided to give it a go, and glad I did. The music sounds more full and indepth. More warm and punchy. I listened to the same vinyl with it and without it, and boy there's a noticeable difference. I actually thought I left the turntable switch on phono instead of line when I disconnected the Douk because it was so weak!!! Didn't touch volume, left everything on usual settings. I said to myself man it sounds low and weak, must be on phono still!! It wasn't. I had it back on line like I had played all my records for the longest time. Right then I knew I needed a preamp and this Douk fit the bill perfectly.