Dino

About the Dino

The Trichord Dino is a high-performance phono preamplifier aimed at the mid-range market, offering excellent flexibility and sound quality. It features a two-box design with a separate power supply containing a toroidal transformer, providing low noise and stable voltage regulation. The main unit has a silvered perspex case with a minimalist front panel and rear connectors. It uses fully passive RIAA equalisation between two active gain stages, with the first stage employing an SSM2017 microphone preamp and the second stage a FET op-amp combined with a discrete Class A output stage. The Dino supports a wide range of cartridges through DIP switches that adjust input resistance (33, 100, 1k, or 47k ohms), capacitance (1.1nF for MC, 100pF for MM), and gain (48, 52, 63, 70, or 74dB). It delivers an open, clear, and detailed sound with controlled bass and high definition in mid-high frequencies. The unit measures 130 x 58 x 112 mm and can be powered by AC (0-17V, 50/60Hz) or DC (0-22V) supplies. The Dino Mk3 version features improved ground layout, reduced noise by 4.5dB, and a new analogue output stage using OPA827 op amps for enhanced sound quality. It is well regarded for its tonal balance, timing, and sound staging, making it suitable for a wide range of HiFi systems.