JDS Labs Atom Phono

The JDS Labs Atom Phono combines a powerful RIAA phono preamplifier with exceptionally clean tone control, offering far greater flexibility than a standard vinyl setup. Thanks to its versatile bypass system, the unit can function as an equalizer, as a phono preamplifier, as both simultaneously, or even completely transparently when neither is needed. With adjustable gain of 30 dB or 40 dB, the Atom Phono delivers significantly more output power than most integrated phono stages, while keeping noise and distortion extremely low. Designed to fit seamlessly into a dedicated vinyl setup, the Atom Phono can also be neatly stacked with other Atom series components or easily integrated into a mixed setup.

Key Features

Equalization (2-band EQ)

The Atom Phono’s tone control is a refined, low-noise adaptation of the classic Baxandall circuit, tuned for deeper bass and sparkling highs. The EQ can be bypassed at any time and, even when used in conjunction with the phono stage, does not result in any measurable loss of performance.

Dual Gain

With adjustable gain settings of 30 dB and 40 dB, the Atom Phono offers flexibility for a wide range of cartridges. At 40 dB, a 15 mV moving-magnet cartridge is amplified to over 1.5 VRMS—approximately four times stronger than an average phono preamplifier.

Subsonic Filter

A carefully tuned, NJM5532-based subsonic filter suppresses unwanted low-frequency rumble from turntables. This prevents disruptive noise from reaching headphones or speakers, improves clarity, and protects speakers from excessive low-frequency excursion.

Exceptionally Low Noise

Thanks to its precise engineering, the Atom Phono achieves an impressively low noise level—even at higher gain settings—ensuring that vinyl playback remains clear, detailed, and faithful to the original recording.