Audio Note (UK) M6 preamplifier is designed specifically for sonic performance rather than technical specifications, and meets all Audio Note (UK) Level 4 standards:—

Pure Class A operation

Zero negative feedback

Single-ended circuit topology

Vacuum tube rectification

Material and Component Quality

It is well known that the precise reproduction of music—as opposed to mere sound—requires the preservation of the input signal’s purity. Consequently, it follows that to achieve this goal and retain the musicality of the original performance, the complexity of the circuitry itself must be kept to a minimum. In response to this, M6 ​​series employs a single-ended, zero-feedback circuit topology. This design offers superior linearity, relies on pure Class A tube operation, and eliminates the need for a phase splitter, a component that would otherwise introduce unwanted crossover distortion.

In contrast to the prevailing trend in the audio industry, our circuit designs aim to minimize non-harmonic and time-domain anomalies, rather than simply chasing vanishingly low harmonic distortion or intermodulation figures. These non-harmonic and time-domain distortions have a significant, audible, and detrimental impact on the signal waveform; addressing them is far more important than engaging in the increasingly irrelevant “numbers game” of pursuing “perfect” measured responses.

Therefore, M6 ​​is designed for maximum linearity and minimal transient distortion, avoiding detrimental “correction” measures such as inherently error-prone feedback loops.

Instead of using separate controls for volume and balance, M6 ​​Line employs a dedicated Audio Note (UK) stepped attenuator for each channel. This not only delivers the immense improvement in sound quality expected from the now-legendary Audio Note (UK) stepped attenuators but also provides a level of channel balance precision unattainable with conventional volume and balance potentiometers.

M6 ​​line preamplifier features a line stage utilizing ECC82 and 7044 tubes and employs a power supply based on the M10 “S” Galahad PSU, featuring a 6X5 tube rectifier. This power supply also incorporates an ECL82 for voltage regulation and a 5651 gas-filled voltage regulator tube. Components include Audio Note (UK) silver wiring, tantalum resistors, proprietary electrolytic capacitors, and Audio Note (UK) copper-foil signal capacitors, alongside custom Audio Note (UK) output transformers—designed and manufactured in-house—featuring UHiB C-cores, copper primary windings, and silver secondary windings. M6 ​​also incorporates a properly designed and implemented balanced output circuit.

M6 ​​Phono Preamplifier features a line stage equipped with ECC82 and 7044 tubes, powered by a 6X5 tube-rectified supply based on M10’s Galahad PSU. It utilizes Audio Note (UK) silver wiring, 1-watt Audio Note (UK) tantalum resistors, custom electrolytic capacitors, and Audio Note (UK) copper-foil signal capacitors. It also incorporates custom Audio Note (UK) output transformers—designed and manufactured in-house—featuring UHiB C-cores, copper primaries, and silver secondaries. M6 ​​includes a properly designed and implemented balanced output circuit. Additionally, it boasts an exceptional moving-magnet phono stage utilizing three 5670 tubes, Audio Note (UK) copper-foil signal capacitors, and pure silver wiring, all powered by its own dedicated, tube-regulated and tube-rectified power supply.

At the heart of M6 ​​RIAA is an exceptional moving-magnet phono stage utilizing three 5670 tubes. This is followed by a line stage featuring 7044 tubes; both sections are powered by a dedicated 6X5 tube-rectified power supply based on M10’s Galahad PSU. These power supplies also incorporate ECL82 tubes for voltage regulation and 5651 tubes as voltage stabilizers. The unit employs Audio Note (UK) copper wiring, Audio Note (UK) 1-watt tantalum resistors, custom-made electrolytic capacitors, Audio Note (UK) copper-foil signal capacitors, and custom Audio Note (UK) output transformers designed and manufactured in-house—featuring UHiB double C-cores with copper primary windings and silver secondary windings. M6 ​​RIAA also features a properly designed and implemented balanced output circuit.

Technical specifications

Input Impedance: 100k Ohms – Line Level

47k Ohm – Phono Stage

Input sensitivity: 126 mV for 1 V output

Output impedance< 10 ohms

Unit weight: 16 kg per unit

Unit dimensions: 140 mm (H) x 440 mm (W) x 410 mm (D) – PRE

​ 140 mm (H) x 440 mm (W) x 410 mm (D) – PSU (if applicable)

Power Input: AC 100-120V / 220-240V, 50/60Hz

Note: Due to Audio Note (UK)’s ongoing research and development program, specifications are subject to change without notice.