Chinook SE MKI

About the Chinook SE MKI

The Manley Chinook SE MKI is a tube-based phono preamplifier that offers extensive flexibility for audiophiles using moving magnet (MM) or moving coil (MC) cartridges. It uses four 6922 vacuum tubes (two for gain stage and two for output stage), compatible with 6DJ8, 7308, and ECC88 types. The SE version upgrades the stock tubes to cryogenically treated Gold Lion 6922 tubes, selected by ear for superior sonic performance. It provides multiple gain settings (45, 50, 60, and 65 dB) to accommodate a wide range of cartridge outputs. Input termination capacitance is user-selectable with seven capacitance values from 50pF to 350pF, and MC input impedance offers 32 loading options via five selectable resistor values (50, 100, 200, 400, 800 ohms). The MM input impedance is fixed at 47k ohms. The output impedance is 91 ohms, with a minimum recommended load of 2500 ohms. The unit features a fully regulated linear power supply, toroidal transformer for low noise, and automatic mute circuitry for tube warm-up and power down. Dimensions are approximately 17" W x 3.5" H x 11" D, and it weighs about 15 lbs. The Chinook SE MKI is made in California and is praised for its rich harmonic detail, dynamic range, and precise imaging, suitable for a wide variety of music genres.