TP-2.5i

The new TP-2.5 i phono stage is undoubtedly a high-value choice for audiophiles looking to assemble a high-resolution analog system on a reasonable budget. A complete redesign of its predecessor, TP-2.5 i incorporates technology derived from our acclaimed flagship phono stage, TP-6.5. It not only retains much of the musicality and resolution found in its higher-end siblings but also delivers significant improvements in speed, refinement, layering, and drive.

TP-2.5 i matches VTL’s higher-end models in build quality and aesthetics, boasting an elegant design and a comprehensive feature set. Prioritizing flexibility and user-friendliness, it offers user-adjustable cartridge impedance and two-stage gain settings, along with inputs for both MC and MM cartridges. The MC stage utilizes a hybrid JFET/tube circuit, while the MM stage employs an all-tube design. Additionally, the front panel features controls for a low-frequency filter and mono mode. The signal path is designed for simplicity and directness, utilizing audiophile-grade components throughout to ensure ultimate sonic purity.

The all-new TP-2.5 i phono stage opens the door to true high-end analog sound quality. Inheriting the exceptional DNA of the VTL family, it delivers high-resolution detail, linear response, and precise bass control, while offering a depth of timbre, rich midrange texture, and expansive soundstage rarely found in most phono stages. For music lovers who truly cherish music and crave the exquisite sound quality that only a high-quality analog system can provide, the new TP-2.5 i is an indispensable component.

TP2.5 i shares the same exterior design as TL2.5 i preamplifier, featuring an aluminum top cover and substantial side panels mounted on a reinforced chassis for enhanced rigidity and support, along with a non-ferromagnetic ring surrounding the audio circuitry.

TP-2.5 i also features a built-in MC step-up transformer, offering users the flexibility to use any phono cartridge. Selectable settings include MC Active mode and MC Step-Up Transformer mode; in both modes, the signal passes through the 12AX7 MM amplification stage, creating an all-tube signal path for MC amplification.

MC step-up transformer provides gain roughly equivalent to that of an active MC stage—with a 10:1 step-up ratio—but with significantly lower noise; it also supports three cartridge impedance settings: 100 ohms, 470 ohms, and 1 kilohm. Certain low-gain, low-source-impedance cartridges can achieve superior sound quality when paired with a step-up transformer, while the low-noise step-up capability allows for compatibility with a wider range of cartridges.

To further reduce noise pickup in the step-up transformer, a shielding layer was added between the power supply and audio circuits, and the AC filtering components were relocated to the AC power side of the shield.

Another design breakthrough of TP-2.5 i is the use of a shunt regulator in the power supply, which lowers the noise floor and expands the soundstage into a wider, more open, and more cohesive sonic landscape.

The new power transformer in the TP-2.5 i is similar to the one used in the TL-2.5 i; it employs balanced winding technology designed to achieve lower magnetic radiation.

Multi-stage AC RF filtering ensures the complete elimination of AC RF interference and reduces circuit noise, resulting in a darker, quieter background.
Low-noise hybrid JFET/tube active MC stage and all-tube MM stage.
Enter the MM and MC data separately.
User-selectable MC cartridge load impedance with six settings: 100Ω, 250Ω, 470Ω, 1kΩ, 4.7kΩ, and 47kΩ.
User-selectable MC step-up load settings are 100Ω, 470Ω, and 1kΩ.
User-selectable MM load options are 10kΩ, 47kΩ, and 100kΩ.
User-selectable MC gain settings of 62dB and 56dB.
Passive RIAA filter
Buffered output; capable of driving low-impedance equipment via any cable.
Zero microprocessor noise.
Front panel power, vibration/mono, and mute switches.
The rumble function rolls off to -3 dB at 10 Hz.
It exclusively utilizes audiophile-grade components, including REL capacitors.
Low-radiation power transformer featuring comprehensive AC RF filtering and shielding capabilities.
MC MM MC StepUp
Gain (Total 62dB) Selectable 56 dB or 62 dB 46 dB 65 dB
Selectable Cartridge Load 100Ω, 250Ω, 470Ω, 1kΩ, 4.7kΩ, 47kΩ 47kΩ, 100kΩ 100Ω, 470Ω, 1kΩ
Signal to Noise Ratio 46 dB 65 dB 64 dB
Minimum Recommended Cartridge Output 0.2 mV 1.5 mV 0.2 mV
Vacuum Tube Complement 1 x 12AU7 2 x 12AX7
(1 x 12AT7 output)
Inputs 1 pair single-ended RCA 1 pair single-ended RCA
Outputs 1 pair single-ended RCA
Output Impedance 375Ω
Frequency Response +0 -1 dB 10 Hz —100 kHz
Max Output Voltage <1% THD 8 V
Channel Separation > 60 dB (20 Hz — 20 kHz)
Power Consumption 25 W
Dimensions W x D x H 19 x 14 x 3.75 inch / 48.25 x 35.5 x 9.5 cm
Weight 25 lbs (11.34 kg) packed