Micro 25R Pre

About the Micro 25R Pre

The Croft Micro 25R Pre is a valve preamplifier that uses three 12AX7 (ECC83) tubes: two dedicated to the phono stage and one to the line stage. It features a fully point-to-point hand-wired interior with audiophile-grade capacitors in the RIAA equalization and coupling networks. The power supply is fully valve-regulated with high-quality toroidal transformers and additional regulation valves, resulting in lower noise and improved stability compared to the standard Micro 25. The preamplifier operates in pure Class A, contributing to a refined sonic character. The front panel includes dual-mono volume controls for precise channel balance, a mute switch, an input selector for three line-level sources and one phono input, and a power switch. The rear panel offers gold-plated RCA sockets for all inputs and outputs, a dedicated phono earth/grounding post, and a fused IEC power inlet. The phono stage supports moving-magnet cartridges and higher-output moving-coil cartridges, with RIAA equalization implemented via shunt feedback and high-grade capacitors for accurate frequency response. The line stage is a cathode-follower buffer with unity gain, ensuring low output impedance and minimal coloration. The Micro 25R is praised for its transparent, open, and three-dimensional soundstage with a natural musical presentation, synergizing well with Croft’s Series 7 power amplifier but compatible with a wide range of power amps. Its regulated design and upgraded components yield lower noise and greater clarity, especially in demanding systems or with high-sensitivity speakers.