SWP-9.0 SE

About the SWP-9.0 SE

The ModWright SWP-9.0 SE is a standalone tube phono preamplifier that uses a complement of six vacuum tubes: two 6C45, two 6N1P, and two 5687 tubes. It offers a maximum gain of 66-68dB for MC cartridges with a hi/low gain switch on the front panel, supporting both stereo and mono operation. The unit features a split passive RIAA filter with zero feedback, delivering a very quiet and neutral sound that avoids the typical 'tubey' warmth, providing plenty of air and detail often missed by solid-state phono stages. It is designed to work well with very low output MC cartridges and is praised for its full, fast, and accurate sound reproduction with a touch of tube texture that is never intrusive. The phono stage is housed in a chassis measuring approximately 17.5"W x 12.375"D x 4.75"H and weighs about 27 lbs. It includes a tube-rectified power supply internally, contributing to its sonic character. The SWP-9.0 SE is considered one of the best values in analog phono stages, with build quality including ModWright-branded Teflon capacitors and excellent wiring. It is a modern design that balances musicality and technical performance, suitable for audiophiles seeking a high-end tube phono preamp.