Cambridge Audio Alva Duo MM/MC Phono Preamplifier with Headphone Amp

The Cambridge Audio Alva Duo is a moving magnet and moving coil phono preamplifier with a built-in headphone amplifier. It handles both MM and MC cartridges from a single compact chassis, making it a versatile upgrade for any turntable setup.

The MM input provides 39dB of gain at 47k ohms, while the MC input delivers 60dB of gain at 100 ohms, covering the full range of cartridge types from entry-level moving magnets to high-end low-output moving coils. RIAA correction is accurate to plus or minus 0.3dB, and the signal-to-noise ratio reaches above 90dB on MM and above 70dB on MC. ProHiFi is an authorised Cambridge Audio dealer in India.

A built-in subsonic filter removes low-frequency rumble from worn or warped records, protecting speakers and cleaning up the bass. A rear-mounted balance control allows fine correction of left and right channel output if the cartridge has a slight imbalance. The integrated 6.35mm headphone output lets you listen to vinyl directly from the phono stage without powering on an amplifier.

The switch mode power supply operates outside audible frequencies to eliminate hum, and surface-mount components on the circuit board keep signal paths short and noise low. Auto power down after 20 minutes of inactivity keeps standby consumption below half a watt. Analog Planet praised it as outperforming its low price, noting it was surprisingly quiet with impressively low hiss even at high volume settings.

Key Features

• Moving magnet and moving coil phono preamplifier
• MM: 39dB gain, 47k ohm; MC: 60dB gain, 100 ohm
• Integrated 6.35mm headphone amplifier with volume control
• RIAA accuracy plus or minus 0.3dB; SNR above 90dB (MM)
• Built-in subsonic filter for rumble reduction
• Rear balance control for cartridge channel correction
• Separate MM and MC RCA inputs on rear panel
• Switch mode power supply; surface-mount circuit board
• Auto power down after 20 minutes; standby below 0.5W
• Compact: 48 x 215 x 159mm; 0.95kg; Lunar Grey

Warranty:

1-year manufacturer's warranty

Why Consider the Cambridge Audio Alva Duo

The Alva Duo is the right choice for vinyl listeners who want a single phono preamplifier that handles both MM and MC cartridges today and as the system grows. The MC input at 100 ohms and 60dB gain means upgrading to a low-output moving coil cartridge does not require a new phono stage. The integrated headphone amplifier adds a private listening option directly from the turntable without needing the main system powered on. The subsonic filter and balance control are practical features that are genuinely rare at this price point. Analog Planet noted that even careful listeners would never guess the price based on sound quality alone, and the switch mode power supply keeps the unit hum-free. For an Indian audiophile starting with a moving magnet cartridge and planning a future MC upgrade, the Alva Duo is a cost-effective, future-proof investment.

Ideal for

• Turntable owners who want one phono stage for both MM and MC cartridges
• Listeners who want to play vinyl through headphones directly from the phono stage
• Systems where a subsonic filter is needed to clean up rumble from older records
• Those planning to upgrade from MM to MC cartridge in the future
• Compact setups where a separate headphone amplifier is not practical
• Amplifiers without a built-in phono stage needing a standalone MM/MC preamp

What's in the Box

• Cambridge Audio Alva Duo MM/MC Phono Preamplifier
• Mains Lead
• User Manual
• Safety Guide

Technical Specifications