SP11 MkII

About the SP11 MkII

The Audio Research SP11 MKII is a highly regarded hybrid tube preamplifier released in the late 1980s, known for its fusion of triode tubes, JFETs, and MOSFETs in each active stage. It uses six 6DJ8/ECC88 tubes and offers a warm yet precise sound signature, requiring a warm-up period of 15 to 30 minutes to reach optimal performance. The preamp includes multiple inputs (phono, tuner, CD, video, spare) with selectable impedance settings for phono cartridges, and features extensive control options such as tape monitoring, mute, bypass, polarity inversion, and subsonic filtering. It has a dual chassis design with a separate power supply and provides high gain and low distortion, making it a timeless piece for audiophiles seeking both musicality and detail. The unit is typically found in excellent cosmetic and operational condition, often including Telefunken E88CC tubes and original power umbilical.