Parasound ZC ZPhono MM/MC Phono Preamplifier, Linear PSU, Half-Width

The Parasound ZC ZPhono is a compact half-width MM and MC phono preamplifier from the Parasound ZC Series. It is switchable between moving magnet at 47k ohms (46dB gain) and moving coil at 100 ohms (61dB gain), with RIAA correction accurate to within 0.25dB across 20Hz to 20kHz.

A key differentiator at this price point is the internal linear power supply. Unlike most phono stages in this category, which use an external wall-wart adaptor, the ZPhono houses its power supply inside the chassis. This keeps mains-frequency interference away from the audio circuitry and contributes to the unit's quiet, hum-free operation. An AC polarity switch on the rear panel eliminates ground-loop hum that can occur when the mains plug orientation is ambiguous. ProHiFi is an authorised Parasound dealer in India.

Ultra high-speed, low-noise op-amps with audiophile-grade resistors and capacitors, gold-plated RCA input and output jacks, and a half-width 1U chassis that mounts neatly alongside the ZPre3 and ZAmp V3 complete the package. Wall of Sound Australia gave it a Gold Star in 2022, describing its sound field as having exceptional immediacy and rhythmic drive. Dagogo praised its silence, calling it quiet as a church mouse with all turntables tested. All Elite Audio called it a phono preamp for everyone, noting how much it exceeds its price in everyday use.

Key Features

• MM: 46dB gain, 47k ohm input impedance
• MC: 61dB gain, 100 ohm input impedance
• RIAA accuracy within 0.25dB, 20Hz to 20kHz
• Internal linear power supply; no external wall-wart required
• AC polarity switch to eliminate hum
• Ultra high-speed, low-noise op-amps
• Audiophile-grade resistors and capacitors
• Gold-plated RCA input and output jacks
• Half-width 1U chassis; 115-230V compatible
• Wall of Sound Gold Star 2022; Dagogo Recommended; All Elite Audio Recommended 2024

Warranty:

3-year manufacturer's warranty

Why Consider the Parasound ZC ZPhono

The ZPhono is the right choice for vinyl listeners who want a dedicated phono preamplifier that is quiet, well-built, and genuinely hum-free at the most accessible price in the Parasound range. The internal linear power supply is the key feature that separates it from competitors at similar prices. Dagogo's observation that it is quiet as a church mouse with all turntables tested is a direct result of that design decision. It handles both MM and MC cartridges with a simple switchable gain stage, works with any line-level amplifier or preamplifier input, and sits naturally alongside the ZPre3 and ZAmp V3 as the turntable input in a matched ZC Series system.

Ideal for

• Turntable owners who need a standalone phono stage for an amplifier without a phono input
• MM and high-output MC cartridge users wanting quiet, hum-free phono amplification
• ZC Series system builds alongside the ZPre3 and ZAmp V3
• Compact systems where a half-width chassis is preferred
• Those upgrading from a turntable's built-in preamp or a wall-wart phono stage

Technical Specifications