This is not like the majority of other phonograph preamplifiers seen today, since a current based phonograph preamp inherently, by design, does not require any additional cartridge loading (ie. resistance tuning damping) to be implemented, therefore the typical user tweaking and searching for just the right sounding tuning load for your low output moving coil cartridge is not required. Simply put, the Grail SX automatically senses exactly the internal coil resistance requirements through its current sensing circuit for your cartridge in real-time then matches voltage perfectly for precise electromechanical matching. The resulting playback results are superlative, inky black backgrounds, unbridled dynamics, enormous sound stage, organic tonal purity and sheer musical transparency without any hint of solid state glare, you really must hear it for yourself to fully appreciate what this model brings to the listening landscape.

Only a handful of well respected, ultra high end phonograph preamp manufacturers utilize similar current based design topology, some examples being CH Precision and Sutherland Engineering.

Cosmetic condition is conservatively rated as 8/10, due to a couple of tiny, superficial scuff marks at the rear chassis edge which I tried to show in the photographs but in reality are almost impossible to see, when viewed in person this Grail SX easily rates 9/10 cosmetically and functions flawlessly.

Some additional background history for the sake of full disclosure, this was originally an industry demonstrator unit sold earlier this year to a client of ours as a used model with full warranty who presently owns another Grail SX, but has recently decided to downsize his system negating the need for a secondary stand alone phono stage.  This demonstrator Grail SX was never actually removed from the packing box and used in our client's system, after delivery, it was kept sealed in dry storage for a very brief time, then sent directly back to us for consignment sale. Full manufacturers warranty is included.   

MSRP - $29,000

Asking - $19,750 o.b.o.  

Specifications