Wattson Audio Madison Phono pre-amplifier

Wattson Audio announces the Madison Phono, a compact phono
stage that combines precision digital processing with the com
pany’s high-density engineering philosophy to rethink vinyl replay
for contemporary systems. Designed for moving magnet, moving
coil, and DS Audio photo-electric cartridges, the Madison Phono
uses dedicated input-stage architectures tailored to the electrical
behavior of each source.
With support for RIAA, Columbia, Teldec, EMI, and Decca
curves, plus both digital and analog outputs, the Madison Phono
integrates naturally into contemporary high-performance audio
systems while preserving the unique musical character of vinyl.

Configured for the Cartridge

The Madison Phono uses a modular input-board architecture.
Each unit is fitted with a single input board, specified at the time
of order for voltage, current, or optical cartridge operation. This
allows Wattson Audio’s engineers to optimize the input stage
for the specific cartridge type it serves, without adding the cost,
complexity, or redundancy of unused circuitry. The board may also
be replaced later, allowing the Madison Phono to be reconfigured as
cartridges or listening priorities change.

One Platform, Three Purpose-Built Input Stages

The Madison Phono is supplied with one of three dedicated input
boards—Voltage, Current, or Optical—specified at time of order. For
moving magnet and high-impedance moving coil cartridges, the
voltage-input board combines a linear-stage amplification circuit
with four defined gain and load settings, making setup simple while
preserving dynamic character and tonal balance.
For low-impedance moving coil cartridges, the current-input board
uses a true active transimpedance amplifier derived from CH
Precision technology and unique to Wattson Audio. By utlizing the
cartridge’s current signal directly at the input, it reduces sensitivity
to cables and loading interactions, preserving frequency response,
transient precision, and low noise.
For DS Audio photo-electric cartridges, the Madison Phono uses a
dedicated input stage operating in photoconductive mode, built around
a true active transimpedance amplifier designed specifically for optical
cartridge replay.
Unlike the common voltage approach seen in many designs, this
active circuit drastically improves dynamic performances. Frequency
response remains more stable, transients are preserved with greater
precision, and the noise floor stays lower—allowing the cartridge’s
speed, clarity, and low-level information to emerge.

In the Madison Phono, equalization is removed from the analog
signal path. The cartridge signal is first amplified by a fully linear
analog stage, then digitized at 32-bit/384 kHz DXD resolution,
where correction curves and filtering are applied in the digital
domain.
This approach allows equalization to be implemented with
exceptional precision, repeatability, and flexibility, while keeping
the sensitive analog amplification circuitry simpler and more
stable. RIAA, Columbia, Teldec, EMI, and Decca curves can be
applied with ±0.1 dB accuracy, allowing records mastered under
different historical standards to be reproduced with the correct
tonal balance.

PowerS: Deeper Silence, Greater Expression

Like all Madison products, the Madison Phono can be upgraded with

the external PowerS supply. By lowering the noise floor and increas-
ing dynamic headroom, the PowerS allows more of the signal’s fine

structure to emerge. Dynamic contrasts become more immediate,
spatial cues more precisely resolved, and low-level detail appears
against a quieter, more stable background. The effect is not merely
more information, but greater dimensionality, a more coherent
soundstage, and a more effortless sense of musical realism.

Availability and Price
The Madison Phono is available now at your favorite authorized
Wattson Audio retailer.
MSRP: $5,495; €5.240 (Inc VAT) Includes one input board, specified at
time of order: Voltage, Current, or Optical.
Additional Input Boards: $500; €500 (Inc VAT) Voltage, Current, and
Optical input boards may be purchased separately, allowing the Madison
Phono to be reconfigured if system requirements change. Only one input
board can be installed at a time.
About Wattson Audio
Wattson Audio is a Swiss audio manufacturer dedicated to
creating timeless, precision-engineered products that elevate
the musical experience. Rooted in a deep passion for sound, the
brand blends advanced technology with minimalist design to
deliver pure, emotionally resonant listening.
About CH Precision
CH Precision is a globally respected Swiss manufacturer of
reference-level audio electronics, recognized for its meticulous
engineering and modular system architecture. With a strong
foundation in innovation and precision, CH Precision continues
to define the standard for high-performance music reproduction.