Clearaudio Compact Phono: 4 Smart Upgrades in a Tiny Box

German hi-fi brand Clearaudio has introduced the Clearaudio Compact Phono, a new MM/MC phono stage that measures just 80 x 115 x 26mm. Designed to sit alongside a turntable without taking up much space, the Clearaudio Compact Phono adds front-panel switching between moving magnet and moving coil operation, a first for the range.

A Simpler Way to Switch Cartridges

Clearaudio Compact Phono rear panel with MM/MC switch and RCA connections — A front-panel pushbutton switches between MM and MC operation

MM/MC selection on the Clearaudio Compact Phono is controlled by a single front-panel pushbutton. Clearaudio says this replaces the need to open previous phono stage models and reconfigure internal jumpers whenever a listener changes cartridge type, making it easier to switch between turntables or cartridges without reaching for a screwdriver.

Active Feedback Topology and Dual Filtering

Inside, the Clearaudio Compact Phono uses what the brand calls an Active Feedback Topology, built around low-noise, high-precision operational amplifiers. Gain is split across two stages: the first provides the main amplification, while the second incorporates filtering designed to limit unwanted frequencies at either end of the audible range. A 16Hz subsonic filter is aimed at removing rumble associated with warped records, while a 70kHz ultrasonic filter is designed to address cartridge resonances. Clearaudio says the approach maintains RIAA equalisation and signal stability while adding filtering without compromising the rest of the signal path.

Built for Both MM and MC Cartridges

Clearaudio Compact Phono phono stage in black and silver finishes side by side — The Compact Phono is available now in black and silver

The Clearaudio Compact Phono is designed for use with both MM and MC cartridges — including the brand’s own Electronic Diamond Jubilee MC — with adjustable input loading of 47kΩ/100pF for MM and 100Ω/100pF for MC. Gain can be switched between 40dB and 60dB to accommodate cartridges with different output levels, and Clearaudio states that both gain settings are higher than those offered by its predecessor models, with MC operation providing 29dB of headroom.

Compact Construction, Lower Power Draw

Clearaudio Compact Phono MM/MC phono stage in black, angled view — Internally the Compact Phono uses a four-layer PCB with isolating feet

Power comes from a specially developed ±18V audio supply with two linear voltage regulators. Internally, the Clearaudio Compact Phono uses a four-layer PCB with separate ground and supply planes, along with thin-film resistors and capacitors chosen for tight tolerances. The electronics sit inside a low-resonance metal enclosure on isolating feet. Power consumption is specified at 0.7 watts during operation, well down from the 2.3 to 2.7 watts drawn by the predecessor models, though there is no standby mode.

Pricing and availability

The Clearaudio Compact Phono is available now in black and silver finishes, priced at £490, €490 and $639. Full details are listed on Clearaudio’s official website, alongside the rest of the German brand’s turntable and electronics range, for listeners who want front-panel MM/MC flexibility without a larger outboard phono stage taking up shelf space.