SWL 9.0 SE Tubed Linestage

About the SWL 9.0 SE Tubed Linestage

The SWL 9.0 SE is a tube linestage preamplifier designed by ModWright Instruments, known for its exceptional value and world-class performance. It uses two 5687 tubes in a Class A 'Mu' type gain/buffer stage, providing about 15dB gain with very low distortion and noise (-122dB). The unit features four standard RCA inputs (including one monitor input), two sets of main outputs, and one tape output. It includes remote control for volume and mute, input select, home theater bypass loop, and tape/monitor loop. The power supply uses choke input current regulation, DC heaters, and discrete B+ voltage regulation. The volume control is a remote-controlled Alps motorized potentiometer. The design emphasizes a full, fast, and accurate frequency response from 17Hz to 100kHz with tonal balance that is detailed without edge or glare, and a holographic imaging typical of tube sound but without the usual 'soft' or 'syrupy' tube coloration. High-quality components such as FRED and Schottky diodes, Vishay metal film resistors, ceramic tube sockets, and high-quality film capacitors are used throughout. The unit weighs 25 lbs and measures 17"W x 12"D x 4"H. It is highly regarded for its clarity, dynamics, and tonal accuracy, making it a great value in the high-end audio market. The 5687 tubes used are NOS and can be replaced with equivalents like 6900, 7044, or 7119. The SWL 9.0 SE is no longer in current production but remains a respected design.