Tindie
muffsy
Overall Rating:
All Reviews
Anders | April 16, 2019
Easy build. Great sound. Stellar service.
When I was 10 years old I owned a radio controlled model car. I recall at some point I had to re-solder a single power cable onto the electric motor. That was more than 30 years ago. Until I ordered the Muffsy Phono Preamp kit, it was my only soldering experience. Having looked at the instructions for the Muffsy Phono Preamp kit I thought I'd give it a go. I'm glad I did.
The kit arrived only a couple of days after ordering. Everything was packaged well and labeled in detail. Having no experience soldering electronics I found the instructions extremely thorough, detailed and easy to follow. I was at one point inattentive and managed to solder a resistor in the wrong slot. I was able to to correct my mistake, although the circuit board received what seemed like a burn mark (which l later realized was mostly burnt solder flux). Certainly, neither component nor instructions were the weak link. I emailed the seller (Håvard Skrodahl) to ask whether he thought I'd damaged the board. He replied (within minutes!) that it would most likely be okay. Although - to be on the safe side - he generously offered to send me a new circuit board and resistor set with no additional cost! Being a novice I also had a few other minor questions during the process, all of which received fast and detailed replies via email. I am amazed at the level of customer service, far above and beyond what one could reasonably expect for a mail order DIY kit.
The rest of the assembly was a piece of cake thanks to the excellent construction guide. The end result is a hi-fi setup which sounds amazing, using the Muffsy Phono Preamp with a Rega Planar 3 turntable (Elys 2 pickup mounted), a Hegel Röst integrated stereo amplifier and Dynaudio Contour 20 standmount speakers. The Muffsy looks good and performs perfectly. Having assembled it myself certainly also adds another level of satisfaction. Without hesitation, I would recommend the Muffsy Phono Preamp kit to anyone who cares for their record collection, regardless of prior experience in electronics.
The kit arrived only a couple of days after ordering. Everything was packaged well and labeled in detail. Having no experience soldering electronics I found the instructions extremely thorough, detailed and easy to follow. I was at one point inattentive and managed to solder a resistor in the wrong slot. I was able to to correct my mistake, although the circuit board received what seemed like a burn mark (which l later realized was mostly burnt solder flux). Certainly, neither component nor instructions were the weak link. I emailed the seller (Håvard Skrodahl) to ask whether he thought I'd damaged the board. He replied (within minutes!) that it would most likely be okay. Although - to be on the safe side - he generously offered to send me a new circuit board and resistor set with no additional cost! Being a novice I also had a few other minor questions during the process, all of which received fast and detailed replies via email. I am amazed at the level of customer service, far above and beyond what one could reasonably expect for a mail order DIY kit.
The rest of the assembly was a piece of cake thanks to the excellent construction guide. The end result is a hi-fi setup which sounds amazing, using the Muffsy Phono Preamp with a Rega Planar 3 turntable (Elys 2 pickup mounted), a Hegel Röst integrated stereo amplifier and Dynaudio Contour 20 standmount speakers. The Muffsy looks good and performs perfectly. Having assembled it myself certainly also adds another level of satisfaction. Without hesitation, I would recommend the Muffsy Phono Preamp kit to anyone who cares for their record collection, regardless of prior experience in electronics.
Anders | Feb. 4, 2019
A super product!
The kit arrived a few days after ordering. It was easy too mount, took me 3-4 hours. I made a mistake with the psu and the support was outstandig from Håvard.
The preamp sounds great, makes me wanna listen to records all day and all night. The feature of having the ability to tweak the load for MM cartridges, makes it an even more attractive RIAA.
The preamp sounds great, makes me wanna listen to records all day and all night. The feature of having the ability to tweak the load for MM cartridges, makes it an even more attractive RIAA.
Guido | Jan. 8, 2019
Perfect!
I'm totally thrilled. The package reached me safely within a few days. There were all (literally all) needed parts, the PCBs make a very professional impression. The assembly took me 3-4 hours (fortunately I had ordered the case in time as recommended). The manual is extremely well written and explained with pictures. Then the big moment when I connected the preamp for the first time: There was absolutely nothing to hear. What was wrong???... Then the needle put on the record and I was released. Everything worked perfectly, but there was no humming or anything like that. Great. I am infinitely satisfied.
Antonio | Dec. 29, 2018
Ottimo
Prodotto ottimo e venditore disponibile.
Documentazione molto chiara anche per un principiante
Documentazione molto chiara anche per un principiante
Ulrich | Dec. 7, 2018
Superb product
The preamp kit is an absolute value its price. The PCB is of very good quality and easy to mount for someone who is a bit experienced in soldering PCBs. It can easily be upgraded to a complete new sonical level by using 4 mono OpAmps OPA 627 by Burr Brown instead of the included NE 5532. Therefore you just have put in Browndog adapters into the existing sockets for the OpAmps extentong the sockets from 2 to 4. The switches on the PCB make it easy ro adjust your cartridge to the amp. The recommended case 0905 fits seamlessly.
Anthony | Nov. 29, 2018
An amazing product
A truly great little MC head amp punching way above its weight. The package was delivered from Sweden within a couple of days of ordering, well packaged. Beautiful PCBs, well made and labelled. I completed the build within an afternoon thanks to the comprehensive online instructions and it just worked first time. No hum, no interference, just quality sound. I opted to use the recommended enclosure which made installation an absolute breeze.
I am now rediscovering my record collection, hearing things I have never heard before. I have it installed in a system comprising Audio Note amplification and speakers, being driven by a Dynavector 17D3 on a SME M series arm, so I am well able to hear subtle or in this case not so subtle differences. I have used a variety of step up transformers and MC pre amps over the last 30 years and this little box beats them all, it really is stunning.
Thank you Skrodahl.
I am now rediscovering my record collection, hearing things I have never heard before. I have it installed in a system comprising Audio Note amplification and speakers, being driven by a Dynavector 17D3 on a SME M series arm, so I am well able to hear subtle or in this case not so subtle differences. I have used a variety of step up transformers and MC pre amps over the last 30 years and this little box beats them all, it really is stunning.
Thank you Skrodahl.
Ibrahim Ekrem | Nov. 19, 2018
Muffsy Phono Preamp - PCBs
For Muffsy Phono Preamp - PCBs
Very good PCB's and fast Cargo.
Very detailed documentation.
Fast communication.
Thank you very much...
Very detailed documentation.
Fast communication.
Thank you very much...
Adam | Oct. 30, 2018
10/10 Quality, Service, and Sound!
This Muffsy Phono Preamp kit is top quality. Top grade parts and customer service. The instructions are perfect and build assembly went by flawlessly for a novice like myself. I highly recommend buying the opamp upgrade option, or using OPA 1642/1612 on adapters. I had several conversations with Skrodahl and learned much from him, all replies were fast too. The Muffsy simply sounds amazing! I had fun testing 3 different combos of opamps (included ones, upgraded ones, and 1642/1612), playing with gain, and capacitance. I finally settled on OPA 1642/1612, 40dB gain, and zero capacitance. I also made my own interconnects during this process using Belden 4855R mini coax cable with RCA compression connectors. The wire is extremely low capacitance, skinny and flexible, highly recommended as well. Shipping was 8 days from Sweden to USA! The PCBs are laid out very nicely, easy to read and top quality. The back panel is also laid out well, and has some nice printing on it. All the pieces in the parts kit were accounted for and top quality. I have compared the Muffsy PP-4 to a Yaqin MS-12b and Hagerman Cornet2, and the Muffsy beats them all handily. Thank you Skrodahl for offering this wonderful kit and all your help you have provided. Buy with confidence, simply flawless!
Equipment:
Music Hall MMF-7.1 with Mojo MM Cart
Muffsy PP-4 Phono Pre
Tortuga Audio LDR Preamp
DIY LPUHP amplifiers, or DIY First Watt F5
Fostex FE206En horns in a back-loaded horn enclosure, or Hifiman HE-6 Headphones
Equipment:
Music Hall MMF-7.1 with Mojo MM Cart
Muffsy PP-4 Phono Pre
Tortuga Audio LDR Preamp
DIY LPUHP amplifiers, or DIY First Watt F5
Fostex FE206En horns in a back-loaded horn enclosure, or Hifiman HE-6 Headphones
Bruce | Oct. 12, 2018
High quality product and service
Very impressive performance out of the amp.
Simple to assemble due to the clear instructions and the very well layed out board.
High quality boards and components.
The sound out of my sound system, and the vinyl, was impressive.
Simple to assemble due to the clear instructions and the very well layed out board.
High quality boards and components.
The sound out of my sound system, and the vinyl, was impressive.
Stig Eirik | Oct. 4, 2018
Great!
I had read a lot of positive reweiws and wanted to try to build one myself.
Ordered the Phono preamp, power supply and backplate and within a few days I got it delivered in my mailbox. I bought enclosure from EBay and AC wall adapter for Schiit.
I have never built anything like this before, so I was a bit nervous before I started..
After four hours it was finished, and after I had checked that it probably would work, I put it in my kitchen stereo. I was really stunned by the sound that came from my stereo, It had never sounded so good before.
Later I will try the Muffsy phone preamp in my main stereo, but I am a bit nervous that it might will make me wounder why I spent a lot more money on the phono preamp I’m using there.
I can highly recommend the Muffsy phono preamp!
Ordered the Phono preamp, power supply and backplate and within a few days I got it delivered in my mailbox. I bought enclosure from EBay and AC wall adapter for Schiit.
I have never built anything like this before, so I was a bit nervous before I started..
After four hours it was finished, and after I had checked that it probably would work, I put it in my kitchen stereo. I was really stunned by the sound that came from my stereo, It had never sounded so good before.
Later I will try the Muffsy phone preamp in my main stereo, but I am a bit nervous that it might will make me wounder why I spent a lot more money on the phono preamp I’m using there.
I can highly recommend the Muffsy phono preamp!
Gareth | March 19, 2018
What a super little product
I opted for all three components - the amp, PSU and back plate and very pleased I did!
The Sound Quality
It is early days yet but I am very impressed (I opted for the BB2134 Op Amps) and it just seems to suit my system and listening. I was replacing an integrated phono stage (for actually no particular reason other than bang for buck upgrades) so the bar perhaps wasn't massively high (although the amp is a Roksan amp of the 2000s and with their TT pedigree I imagine the phono stage wasn't too shabby). In brief - I like this better than what I had (although it can be more revealing of the downstream system..). There are plenty of folks on the forums who compare the CNC preamp favourably (of which this is a derivative/improvement) to very high end pre-amps) but I don't have any direct comparison other than stated.
And there is more fun to be had with with Op-Amp rolling, gain settings etc. too.
I think for the money this is a really good option.
The Kits
Exceptional. The boards are extremely high quality - thickness, screen-printing, solder pads, conformal coating etc. All the components (including the resistors) are clearly marked so doing an inventory take is a doodle. Everything is included, so bar your solder and tools you need nothing else. I found that all the resistors and capacitors were within the specified tolerances because I chose to measure them but I suspect that isn't necessary - so basically you are ready to go.
The instructions are great too - it's 'painting by numbers'!
(Just to set the context - I've soldered before and have decent mechanical skills but this was my first circuit board in 35 odd years since I was a kid when I did some kits).
The Support
So...... I needed a bit of help.... Everything looks fine but after I constructed it but I got a lot of hum when I first hooked it up without any input. I tried all the suggestions on Muffsy's site (and also got a bit obsessive and read all 140 or so pages of the CNC pre-amp forum thread on Audivarna, of which the PP3 is a derivative/improvement...)
Long story short, after contacting Havard (Skrodahl) by email, he seemed as interested in getting my amp working as I did, including investing time over email with suggestions.
Ultimately I remedied the issue. Cannot be precisely sure of the cause but I suspect some wisp of cable was shorting. The point being I cannot imagine better support.
Some Pointers
Just in case any of these pointers help:
- If you plan on using the suggested 0905 case - and it's very good - especially the large 'billet' of aluminium front cover which is about 5mm thick, then I suggest dry fitting the board(s) before soldering - it's your best opportunity to use a bit of wet and dry if the fit is tight (and as others have observed, sometimes the 0905 tolerances aren't 100% perfect). BTW if you want a black front to suit the rest of your equipment, then go for the muffsy back plate and use the 0905 backplate as the front if that makes sense - that's what I'd do if I had Naim or NAD kit for example..
- Take your time and don't panic - I ended up re-flowing (soldering) the board a few times to track down an issue - it's testament to the quality that the board stood up to quite a few cycles, including pulling the DIP switches etc!
The Sound Quality
It is early days yet but I am very impressed (I opted for the BB2134 Op Amps) and it just seems to suit my system and listening. I was replacing an integrated phono stage (for actually no particular reason other than bang for buck upgrades) so the bar perhaps wasn't massively high (although the amp is a Roksan amp of the 2000s and with their TT pedigree I imagine the phono stage wasn't too shabby). In brief - I like this better than what I had (although it can be more revealing of the downstream system..). There are plenty of folks on the forums who compare the CNC preamp favourably (of which this is a derivative/improvement) to very high end pre-amps) but I don't have any direct comparison other than stated.
And there is more fun to be had with with Op-Amp rolling, gain settings etc. too.
I think for the money this is a really good option.
The Kits
Exceptional. The boards are extremely high quality - thickness, screen-printing, solder pads, conformal coating etc. All the components (including the resistors) are clearly marked so doing an inventory take is a doodle. Everything is included, so bar your solder and tools you need nothing else. I found that all the resistors and capacitors were within the specified tolerances because I chose to measure them but I suspect that isn't necessary - so basically you are ready to go.
The instructions are great too - it's 'painting by numbers'!
(Just to set the context - I've soldered before and have decent mechanical skills but this was my first circuit board in 35 odd years since I was a kid when I did some kits).
The Support
So...... I needed a bit of help.... Everything looks fine but after I constructed it but I got a lot of hum when I first hooked it up without any input. I tried all the suggestions on Muffsy's site (and also got a bit obsessive and read all 140 or so pages of the CNC pre-amp forum thread on Audivarna, of which the PP3 is a derivative/improvement...)
Long story short, after contacting Havard (Skrodahl) by email, he seemed as interested in getting my amp working as I did, including investing time over email with suggestions.
Ultimately I remedied the issue. Cannot be precisely sure of the cause but I suspect some wisp of cable was shorting. The point being I cannot imagine better support.
Some Pointers
Just in case any of these pointers help:
- If you plan on using the suggested 0905 case - and it's very good - especially the large 'billet' of aluminium front cover which is about 5mm thick, then I suggest dry fitting the board(s) before soldering - it's your best opportunity to use a bit of wet and dry if the fit is tight (and as others have observed, sometimes the 0905 tolerances aren't 100% perfect). BTW if you want a black front to suit the rest of your equipment, then go for the muffsy back plate and use the 0905 backplate as the front if that makes sense - that's what I'd do if I had Naim or NAD kit for example..
- Take your time and don't panic - I ended up re-flowing (soldering) the board a few times to track down an issue - it's testament to the quality that the board stood up to quite a few cycles, including pulling the DIP switches etc!
John | March 14, 2018
Wonderful kit
Sound is great. Exceptionally quiet noise floor. The online instructions are good and the seller is very helpful with additional questions. Highly recommend this.
Leigh | March 8, 2018
Perfect, Very easy to build and works flawlessly
What can i say?
I Bought it, Built it, it works!
The preamp was delivered quickly and all parts were present and correct. It took about 30 minuets to solder together, all the components are labled for easy identification so even a novice can construct this kit. I plugged in my own op-amps ( LM4562 ) and dropped the needle. The sound was as expected, amazing. With the needle up I could not hear any background noise, Mains borne or Johnson type hiss ( General low level hiss ) so I was pleased at that. I have not gone as far as verifying the RIAA curve but I see no reason why it wont be as per the designers description.
To sum up, A very well put together, easy to build kit that is value for money. I'm sure it is as good as the rest of the best.
Leigh
I Bought it, Built it, it works!
The preamp was delivered quickly and all parts were present and correct. It took about 30 minuets to solder together, all the components are labled for easy identification so even a novice can construct this kit. I plugged in my own op-amps ( LM4562 ) and dropped the needle. The sound was as expected, amazing. With the needle up I could not hear any background noise, Mains borne or Johnson type hiss ( General low level hiss ) so I was pleased at that. I have not gone as far as verifying the RIAA curve but I see no reason why it wont be as per the designers description.
To sum up, A very well put together, easy to build kit that is value for money. I'm sure it is as good as the rest of the best.
Leigh
Dana | Feb. 11, 2018
Mission Accomplished!
If it wasn’t for the awesome instructions and detailed illustrations/photos that Muffsy.com offered, I would never have attempted to build this preamp and hifi power supply. I did build them and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Also, the finished preamp works great! It took me about 3.5 hours to build the two circuit boards and make the rca/ power connections so you should set aside a quiet evening to do it. It was very easy and no stress at all.
Zeev | Feb. 5, 2018
High quality product with real support
So I ordered this, and it arrived a couple of weeks later. It is a superb high-quality PCB (this is not one of your bangood products). Really really really high quality.
Instructions work great. But despite the great instructions I still screwed it up. Then Havard worked with me on email and debugged this with me. He was ready to ship new components for free(which I did not need). It sounds awesome.
So if you are looking for a first electronics kit to do this is probably the best choice.
Instructions work great. But despite the great instructions I still screwed it up. Then Havard worked with me on email and debugged this with me. He was ready to ship new components for free(which I did not need). It sounds awesome.
So if you are looking for a first electronics kit to do this is probably the best choice.
Phil | Feb. 4, 2018
Great Phono Preamp
Wanting to combine a hobby of past years and the need for a phone pre amp for my new turntable i began my search for an "ideal" diy kit.
After much research a came across the Muffsy pre amp and took the plunge to buy and build.
Here's my thoughts on the build, and performance.
So kit duly order via Tindie and arrived from Malmo Sweden in around five days.
All parts came well packaged and well labeled for easy identification of parts.
I wanted to work though as methodically as possible to ensure I got maximum enjoyment and zero frustration.
Double checking the kit contents against the BOM on Muffsy's site https://www.muffsy.com/
i had a few queries. A quick email to Skrodahl quickly had me back on track and ready to go.
I'd taken the advise on the web site and read all of the instructions twice over, that way I would be familiar with the build process, but it also allowed me to think about the finished product, how I wanted this to look and where i might source additional items.
With the build progressing I turned my attention to the case.
The ones recommended on Muffsy were all overseas and likely to take several weeks to arrive so i limited my search to UK stock and found a ideal unit (slightly larger than the one on the Muffsy site) that would match my little dot headphone amp case, I added some self adhesive feet, and a spacer kit so I could mount the PCB's avoiding any risk of short circuits. (see links below)
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/222693680910
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/180pcs-M3-Black-Nylon-Hex-Spacers-Screw-Nut-Assortment-Stand-off-Plastic-Kit-Set/272566279379?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/4-X-SELF-ADHESIVE-STICK-ON-RUBBER-FEET-21MM-X-21MM-X-8MM/191815397408?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
When it came to wiring up I wanted a neater and cleaner look so took the option to mount the screw terminals on the underside rather than on the top face as directed. I made doubly sure that all the connections were reversed to ensure no "surprises" on power up.
So how does it sound ?
Initial setting of 47k on the dip switches it sounded a little bright, but no denying it had a great sound stage, dropping this down a setting (all covered on the build guide on Muffsy) had it sounding sweet. I can see this getting better as it wears in.
I'm genuinely delighted with this build, and even happier it worked first time out, in no doubt thanks to Skrodahl for his detailed instructions and excellent customer service and support.
Would I recommend this build / project YES!
I'm now pouring a nice glass of red and looking forward to exploring my vinyl collection again.
After much research a came across the Muffsy pre amp and took the plunge to buy and build.
Here's my thoughts on the build, and performance.
So kit duly order via Tindie and arrived from Malmo Sweden in around five days.
All parts came well packaged and well labeled for easy identification of parts.
I wanted to work though as methodically as possible to ensure I got maximum enjoyment and zero frustration.
Double checking the kit contents against the BOM on Muffsy's site https://www.muffsy.com/
i had a few queries. A quick email to Skrodahl quickly had me back on track and ready to go.
I'd taken the advise on the web site and read all of the instructions twice over, that way I would be familiar with the build process, but it also allowed me to think about the finished product, how I wanted this to look and where i might source additional items.
With the build progressing I turned my attention to the case.
The ones recommended on Muffsy were all overseas and likely to take several weeks to arrive so i limited my search to UK stock and found a ideal unit (slightly larger than the one on the Muffsy site) that would match my little dot headphone amp case, I added some self adhesive feet, and a spacer kit so I could mount the PCB's avoiding any risk of short circuits. (see links below)
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/222693680910
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/180pcs-M3-Black-Nylon-Hex-Spacers-Screw-Nut-Assortment-Stand-off-Plastic-Kit-Set/272566279379?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/4-X-SELF-ADHESIVE-STICK-ON-RUBBER-FEET-21MM-X-21MM-X-8MM/191815397408?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649
When it came to wiring up I wanted a neater and cleaner look so took the option to mount the screw terminals on the underside rather than on the top face as directed. I made doubly sure that all the connections were reversed to ensure no "surprises" on power up.
So how does it sound ?
Initial setting of 47k on the dip switches it sounded a little bright, but no denying it had a great sound stage, dropping this down a setting (all covered on the build guide on Muffsy) had it sounding sweet. I can see this getting better as it wears in.
I'm genuinely delighted with this build, and even happier it worked first time out, in no doubt thanks to Skrodahl for his detailed instructions and excellent customer service and support.
Would I recommend this build / project YES!
I'm now pouring a nice glass of red and looking forward to exploring my vinyl collection again.
Anastasios | Jan. 14, 2018
A grade phono stage kit with a very nice price!
I am just finish the assembly of Muffsy MM phono preamp kit with DC supply. I finish all assembly in two days working on it relaxing.
The kit is so easy to assembly due to a lot clear instructions in Muffsy site.
I use the BB2134 OPA and also I change the signal output capacitor 1mF with another same capacity JFX Series Polypropylene Cap, also the four electrolytic capacitors with four 22uF 25V Elna Silmic II.
I use the GRADO Reference Platinum MM cartage fitted in SME 3009 and a Thorens TD150 turntable (This is my second system witch I add Muffsy phono stage kit, the main system is a Michel Gyro with Ortofon MC30).
I also add two silver mica 200pF caps in the signal entrance.
I use an aluminum enclosure, close type witch is IP65.
My other (second audio system) consist from a custom made tube preamp, cathode followed, a Bryston 4BST power amp and custom made loudspeakers with Fostex units.
Now I am listening jazz music from my old LP vinyl’s, all in perfect conditions, and I am thinking I must listen again all my LP vinyl’s which are more than 500pic because I listen new organs new details….
The phono stage has also very very nice music stage all organs are mounted in the right place because there are a lot of dynamics.
A very nice thing in this kit is that you can adjust a lot of parameters for cartridges so you achieve the best result from it.
It’s a very nice phono stage witch I strongly recommend.
Thanks Muffsy for this lovely phono stage kit.
Here is some photos from my assembly….
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/245wzwbzpa5exhl/AAD-Krt-gOgHnAf811YD0oVMa?dl=0
Tasos Architektonidis
Athens GREECE
The kit is so easy to assembly due to a lot clear instructions in Muffsy site.
I use the BB2134 OPA and also I change the signal output capacitor 1mF with another same capacity JFX Series Polypropylene Cap, also the four electrolytic capacitors with four 22uF 25V Elna Silmic II.
I use the GRADO Reference Platinum MM cartage fitted in SME 3009 and a Thorens TD150 turntable (This is my second system witch I add Muffsy phono stage kit, the main system is a Michel Gyro with Ortofon MC30).
I also add two silver mica 200pF caps in the signal entrance.
I use an aluminum enclosure, close type witch is IP65.
My other (second audio system) consist from a custom made tube preamp, cathode followed, a Bryston 4BST power amp and custom made loudspeakers with Fostex units.
Now I am listening jazz music from my old LP vinyl’s, all in perfect conditions, and I am thinking I must listen again all my LP vinyl’s which are more than 500pic because I listen new organs new details….
The phono stage has also very very nice music stage all organs are mounted in the right place because there are a lot of dynamics.
A very nice thing in this kit is that you can adjust a lot of parameters for cartridges so you achieve the best result from it.
It’s a very nice phono stage witch I strongly recommend.
Thanks Muffsy for this lovely phono stage kit.
Here is some photos from my assembly….
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/245wzwbzpa5exhl/AAD-Krt-gOgHnAf811YD0oVMa?dl=0
Tasos Architektonidis
Athens GREECE
Rune | Jan. 11, 2018
Fantastic!
Great product! Very proffesional seller!
I dont really have much, to compare with, but it sounds great!
Recomeded.
I dont really have much, to compare with, but it sounds great!
Recomeded.
Tobias | Dec. 20, 2017
Excellent sound, excellent support
A few years ago I was bitten by the audio DIY bug and every so often I feel the need to indulge. Having recently done as many others have, I bought a turntable. I have a Yamaha R-N500 amplifier with a phono stage and was quite happy with it. However I came across the Muffsy Phono Preamp and decided it was time for a little DIY.
Soldering was straightforward. I bought a Stickvise PCB holder which made things that much easier. After putting together the PSU and preamp kits I found there was only a loud hum. I noticed that the 4R7 resistors on the PSU board were scorched - clearly something was wrong!
I contacted Muffsy support and the response was excellent. After some initial debugging I ordered another PSU kit (thanks for the free postage, Havard, most generous!) and assembled it, and in doing so I spotted my previous error which was to reverse the polarity of the connection between the PSU and the preamp. With the new PSU I was up and running in no time!
In the past I've made some tweaks to my system and to be honest I haven't really noticed any difference. However with the Muffsy preamp the difference is clear - everything simply sounds better. I don't possess a good vocabulary for describing hifi experiences, but I can simply say that each instrument on the soundstage has more space around it, everything is more distinct (my acid test is a cymbal crash, and these are clearer).
Soldering was straightforward. I bought a Stickvise PCB holder which made things that much easier. After putting together the PSU and preamp kits I found there was only a loud hum. I noticed that the 4R7 resistors on the PSU board were scorched - clearly something was wrong!
I contacted Muffsy support and the response was excellent. After some initial debugging I ordered another PSU kit (thanks for the free postage, Havard, most generous!) and assembled it, and in doing so I spotted my previous error which was to reverse the polarity of the connection between the PSU and the preamp. With the new PSU I was up and running in no time!
In the past I've made some tweaks to my system and to be honest I haven't really noticed any difference. However with the Muffsy preamp the difference is clear - everything simply sounds better. I don't possess a good vocabulary for describing hifi experiences, but I can simply say that each instrument on the soundstage has more space around it, everything is more distinct (my acid test is a cymbal crash, and these are clearer).
Thomas | Nov. 13, 2017
Great kit from a great seller!! Fast shipping too!
If you want a nice phono preamp kit then this is the one for you. It is all here -design, parts, and documentation. This went together very quickly and the results are superb!
Thanks Again
Thanks Again
Trygve | Nov. 5, 2017
Fantastic MC Head Amp!
Having previously built the preamp, I went on to build the MC Head Amp. Very well documented as always with muffsy.
I had an issue with the power connector and/or power button. Contacted Skrodahl and he sent replacment parts swiftly, what a great customer support!
In conjunction with the preamp, this is great value!
I had an issue with the power connector and/or power button. Contacted Skrodahl and he sent replacment parts swiftly, what a great customer support!
In conjunction with the preamp, this is great value!
Justin | Oct. 29, 2017
Outstanding Phono Preamp by far!
The muffsy was easy to put together. The experience of assembling it was therapeutic - dreaming of what it might sound like.
In the end it sounded awesome in every way imaginable. Gorgeous tone. I left it at its default setting which was perfect !
Overall outstanding !!
In the end it sounded awesome in every way imaginable. Gorgeous tone. I left it at its default setting which was perfect !
Overall outstanding !!
Evenden | Oct. 27, 2017
What a blinder!
The only kit I've made is the bat detector from Tindie, good practice but the Muffsy kits are so easy to assemble. If you can solder a phono plug you can make this.
And when you plug it in you're in for a treat. I got the Muffsy to replace the phono stage in my Musical Fidelity A3. I have a Michell Gyrodec with Origin Live motor and controller, with a Manticore Musician arm and Grado Reference Platinum cartridge with Vdh leads and cable. The A3 has always sounded a bit dull with the built in phono stage. With the Muffsy it feeds my Lowther horns via Origin Live Solicore cable and I'm dancing round the room! The foot tapping doesn't stop with the Stones, John Coltrane is so cool and there is so much detail coming through it's like sitting in the piano as Ashkenazi bangs the ivories on Rachmaninov's 3rd concerto.
Must go, the music is freed and calling me!
Btw the name makes my other half laugh!
And when you plug it in you're in for a treat. I got the Muffsy to replace the phono stage in my Musical Fidelity A3. I have a Michell Gyrodec with Origin Live motor and controller, with a Manticore Musician arm and Grado Reference Platinum cartridge with Vdh leads and cable. The A3 has always sounded a bit dull with the built in phono stage. With the Muffsy it feeds my Lowther horns via Origin Live Solicore cable and I'm dancing round the room! The foot tapping doesn't stop with the Stones, John Coltrane is so cool and there is so much detail coming through it's like sitting in the piano as Ashkenazi bangs the ivories on Rachmaninov's 3rd concerto.
Must go, the music is freed and calling me!
Btw the name makes my other half laugh!
David R | Oct. 18, 2017
very impressed. best upgrade yet to my phono.
I have assembled and tested the phono pre amp riaa converter and power supply. Everything seems to be working well. I have about 20 hours of playing time on it. It sounds much better than my Yamaha rv-1900 riaa, which this is replacing. I have 2 simaudio moon amps driving 2 polk audio rtia7 speakers modded with Von schwiekter VR4jr drivers and crossover. I have a Bel Canto 2.5 DAC and a technics SL-Q2 with an AT440MLa cart. I am very happy with the sound 47k seems to be the happy spot for my combination. Thanks for the great product. If there are other things I could try to make it even better then please let me know. Thanks Havard
Dave S
Aaron | Oct. 16, 2017
Totally awesome kit, worth every penny!
I recently began exploring vinyl and wanted to go beyond the phono stage built-into my Parasound Halo Integrated amp. I'm pretty handy with a soldering iron so this seemed like a good chance to take. I got the Phono Pre-Amp and the Power Supply from Skrodahl (here). Soldering took a little over 2 hours but I was intentionally going very slowly. I spent a bit more time on wiring because I'm a spaz (but not related to the kit). I used the optional OPA2134 op-amps. I connected it to my U-Turn Audio Orbit w/Ortofon 2M Red and was very pleasantly surprised. Listening on my B&W 705s, this is no small improvement: detail, musicality and punch are all dramatically improved. I don't have a huge frame of reference for this sort of thing but I think you'd be hard pressed to do better with a ~$500 class pre-packaged amp from Whoever Audio.
Trygve | Oct. 5, 2017
Super
With very little soldering experience, I managed to assemble the kit easily over a couple of Sundays. Take your time, follow the instructions and you will be rewarded with a very good MM phono stage. I will be ordering the MC Headamp too!
Tonghai | June 30, 2017
Muffsy
This amp arrived 2 weeks since the order. power connector was missing but that's no big deal as everything else was fine. very easy to build, layout of pcb is very neat. documentation is quite well explained. I spent 2 nights for it although I could had got it done in one night.
Sound wise the amp is smooth with quiet back ground. I believe it has low noise floor as i couldnt hear any noises through my headphones.I part it with bottle head crack head amp for some hd600s/hd650s. they sound so sweet.
Thanks to the owner of muffsy who is a nice guy and is easy to communicate with.
Sound wise the amp is smooth with quiet back ground. I believe it has low noise floor as i couldnt hear any noises through my headphones.I part it with bottle head crack head amp for some hd600s/hd650s. they sound so sweet.
Thanks to the owner of muffsy who is a nice guy and is easy to communicate with.
Robert-Jan | June 20, 2017
Fantastic product, great fun and the best customer service.
What A fantastic phono kit it is, high quality components and due to the extensive documentation even for a novice like me a piece of cake to build it.
Unfortunately my power button was broken but was being replaced in a blink with a new one.
Hard to express why you should buy this kit but everybody who is looking for a high quality phono pre and want to have some fun with DIY, go for it....
And yes....it does sound better when you have build it yourself 😉
Robert
Unfortunately my power button was broken but was being replaced in a blink with a new one.
Hard to express why you should buy this kit but everybody who is looking for a high quality phono pre and want to have some fun with DIY, go for it....
And yes....it does sound better when you have build it yourself 😉
Robert
Michi | June 19, 2017
Really Happy!
I had been looking around for a phone pre for some time and finally settled on this kit. The great reviews and the quick responses of the seller even before buying made the decision fairly easy. The kit arrived much quicker than anticipated - I believe within 2 or 3 days. Everything was nicely packaged and labeled. The PCBs look really nice and are clearly above all the others I have used since. With the detailed instructions from the website the build process was really straightforward. I had never soldered before but there are even instructional videos for that on the website and it was really easy to learn. I've been using the amp for a few weeks now and I couldn't be happier. The sound is really clear and I believe it picks up a bit more detail than my previous phono preamps.
I had some questions for the seller along the way - considering this kit and also on how to integrate the phono stage into another project I am working on. He was super helpful all along the way, responded instantly and I learned a great deal. Thank you!
I can recommend this kit to anyone looking for a great phono preamp!
I had some questions for the seller along the way - considering this kit and also on how to integrate the phono stage into another project I am working on. He was super helpful all along the way, responded instantly and I learned a great deal. Thank you!
I can recommend this kit to anyone looking for a great phono preamp!
John | April 9, 2017
Marvellous DIY kit. Highly recommended. Sounds superb.
The kit arrived promptly, well packaged and clearly labelled.
The instructions on Muffsy's website could not be clearer. The links to "learn how to solder" were invaluable - I've not soldered anything in decades.
The last few bits of assembly are fiddly and frustrating, but that's a function of cramming so much into a nice small form factor.
My only advice would be - order the third party case well in advance of completing the kit. I finished the kit before the case arrived from China. Nobody's fault but my own.
Just spent an hour listening and being proud of myself.
Many thanks.
The instructions on Muffsy's website could not be clearer. The links to "learn how to solder" were invaluable - I've not soldered anything in decades.
The last few bits of assembly are fiddly and frustrating, but that's a function of cramming so much into a nice small form factor.
My only advice would be - order the third party case well in advance of completing the kit. I finished the kit before the case arrived from China. Nobody's fault but my own.
Just spent an hour listening and being proud of myself.
Many thanks.
Rob | March 30, 2017
Easy and fun to build MC Head Amp.
I needed extra amplification for my Muffsy Phono Stage, Muffsy already proved a significant upgrade from my Luxman L430 onboard MM/MC stage, however I wanted to fit my new Paradox Pulse Denon DL103 Maroon MC cartridge. When I ordered the kits, I was smart enough to order Muffsy as well as the MC Head Amp from Skrodahl, so I had everything in stock, waiting to be built.
Building these kits from Skrodahl is so much fun, incredible, but do it only when you feel like it. Do not touch a soldering iron when you feel stressed or after enjoying a fine glass of whisky. I built both the PSU and MC Head Amp in a weekend, relaxed with time to concentrate on what you are doing.
Check and measure before connecting everything and flicking the switch hoping all is well. Make sure all is well and you will be rewarded with a fantastic piece of equipment!!
Yesterday I installed and set up the new cartridge and since I had no means of testing the new MC Head Amp other than to connect an MC cartridge to it, this was kind of exciting. But both the cartridge and MC Amp sang.
The sound was better than I could have imagined, realism in strings and voices, full low but still tight controlled bass. Truckloads full of musical enjoyment!!
If you already own Muffsy and plan to use an MC cartridge in the future, do yourself a big favor and order yourself an MC Head Amp and PSU. I guarantee you will not regret this.
Pro's and con's:
1) Skrodahl is a nice guy he offers relentless Customer Service, which is amazing in this day and age. He even noticed one of the input cables being close to making a short to ground. I sent him the pictures to show the result and he scrutinized them and noticed a possible issue. Fantastic and a big thumbs up to Skrodahl.
2) The kits are easy to build and complete.
3) The website offers step to step instructions and clear pictures, if you follow these steps, nothing can go wrong.
4) The equipment works and performs way above expectation, mine anyway.
5) If you use or plan to use an MC cartridge in the near future, do yourself a big favor, buy Muffsy as well as the MC Head Amp.
6) At the price Skrodahl is asking, buying the equipment is almost mandatory.
Con's
1) None actually.
Building these kits from Skrodahl is so much fun, incredible, but do it only when you feel like it. Do not touch a soldering iron when you feel stressed or after enjoying a fine glass of whisky. I built both the PSU and MC Head Amp in a weekend, relaxed with time to concentrate on what you are doing.
Check and measure before connecting everything and flicking the switch hoping all is well. Make sure all is well and you will be rewarded with a fantastic piece of equipment!!
Yesterday I installed and set up the new cartridge and since I had no means of testing the new MC Head Amp other than to connect an MC cartridge to it, this was kind of exciting. But both the cartridge and MC Amp sang.
The sound was better than I could have imagined, realism in strings and voices, full low but still tight controlled bass. Truckloads full of musical enjoyment!!
If you already own Muffsy and plan to use an MC cartridge in the future, do yourself a big favor and order yourself an MC Head Amp and PSU. I guarantee you will not regret this.
Pro's and con's:
1) Skrodahl is a nice guy he offers relentless Customer Service, which is amazing in this day and age. He even noticed one of the input cables being close to making a short to ground. I sent him the pictures to show the result and he scrutinized them and noticed a possible issue. Fantastic and a big thumbs up to Skrodahl.
2) The kits are easy to build and complete.
3) The website offers step to step instructions and clear pictures, if you follow these steps, nothing can go wrong.
4) The equipment works and performs way above expectation, mine anyway.
5) If you use or plan to use an MC cartridge in the near future, do yourself a big favor, buy Muffsy as well as the MC Head Amp.
6) At the price Skrodahl is asking, buying the equipment is almost mandatory.
Con's
1) None actually.
Rob | March 29, 2017
Easy and fun to build Phono Stage + MC Head Amp.
I needed a separate Phono Stage, I hoped to upgrade from my Luxman L430 onboard MM/MC stage, moreover I needed a standalone unit to connect to my tube amplifiers/dedicated headphone amplifier that lacked a Phono Stage.
Building Muffsy and the PSU was a dream, the circuitboards were perfectly finished.
I decided to order the kit complete with all components, to make sure that everything would fit (which it did) and I did not have to hunt for parts, I am glad I did, I could start building straightaway.
I also ordered the housing Skrodahl advised, the circuitboards were a perfect fit.
Everything was included in the kit even the wiring and a length of solder, fantastic.
My Muffsy played without issues from the start, it was perfectly silent without hum.
Skrodahl was not sure if he could call Muffsy High End, I think he can.
Last weekend I finished the MC Head Amp and fitted a Paradox Pulse Denon DL 103, this combination blew my socks off, realistic sounding instruments and voices that became tangible. Lower bass than I had experienced before, but tight and clean.
Overall the Muffsy + Head Amp are very enjoyable units, being a lover of tube amplifiers, I always fear solid state equipment and the harshness that sometimes comes with it. Muffsy sounds neutral with a touch of warmth, you can listen to it for hours without listening fatigue, but it is certainly not lacking in detail.
I feel Skrodahl is doing the Vinyl community a favor by supplying such a fantastic piece of kit, for such a nice price.
Pro's and con's:
1) Skrodahl is a nice guy he offers relentless Customer Service, which is amazing in this day and age.
2) The kits are easy to build and complete.
3) The website offers step to step instructions and clear pictures, if you follow these steps, nothing can go wrong.
4) The equipment works and performs way above expectation, mine anyway.
5) If you use or plan to use an MC cartridge in the near future, do yourself a big favor, buy Muffsy as well as the MC Head Amp.
6) At the price Skrodahl is asking, buying the equipment is almost mandatory.
Con's
1) None actually.
Building Muffsy and the PSU was a dream, the circuitboards were perfectly finished.
I decided to order the kit complete with all components, to make sure that everything would fit (which it did) and I did not have to hunt for parts, I am glad I did, I could start building straightaway.
I also ordered the housing Skrodahl advised, the circuitboards were a perfect fit.
Everything was included in the kit even the wiring and a length of solder, fantastic.
My Muffsy played without issues from the start, it was perfectly silent without hum.
Skrodahl was not sure if he could call Muffsy High End, I think he can.
Last weekend I finished the MC Head Amp and fitted a Paradox Pulse Denon DL 103, this combination blew my socks off, realistic sounding instruments and voices that became tangible. Lower bass than I had experienced before, but tight and clean.
Overall the Muffsy + Head Amp are very enjoyable units, being a lover of tube amplifiers, I always fear solid state equipment and the harshness that sometimes comes with it. Muffsy sounds neutral with a touch of warmth, you can listen to it for hours without listening fatigue, but it is certainly not lacking in detail.
I feel Skrodahl is doing the Vinyl community a favor by supplying such a fantastic piece of kit, for such a nice price.
Pro's and con's:
1) Skrodahl is a nice guy he offers relentless Customer Service, which is amazing in this day and age.
2) The kits are easy to build and complete.
3) The website offers step to step instructions and clear pictures, if you follow these steps, nothing can go wrong.
4) The equipment works and performs way above expectation, mine anyway.
5) If you use or plan to use an MC cartridge in the near future, do yourself a big favor, buy Muffsy as well as the MC Head Amp.
6) At the price Skrodahl is asking, buying the equipment is almost mandatory.
Con's
1) None actually.
Tomasz | March 1, 2017
It's a great little phono preamp!
I've bought Muffsy phono preamp with back panel and Muffsy power supply.
All fitted nicely in b0905 case.
The package came very quickly (around 1 week from Sweden to Poland) The packaging was very good, all elements were sorted and marked with proper stickers. It was a pleasure to build as the pcb is marked superbly.
The sound quality is very good, there is no hum or weird noise. My Vinyl collection is alive again :)
Definitely worth the money!
All fitted nicely in b0905 case.
The package came very quickly (around 1 week from Sweden to Poland) The packaging was very good, all elements were sorted and marked with proper stickers. It was a pleasure to build as the pcb is marked superbly.
The sound quality is very good, there is no hum or weird noise. My Vinyl collection is alive again :)
Definitely worth the money!
Json | Feb. 27, 2017
Great, especially for us beginners.
I looked quite a while for a DIY phono stage. I'm a bit OCD at times when picking something new out. This kit flips all the triggers for me, a person trying to learn the DIY audio game. The adjustability built in the kit with gain and impedance settings will help one learn how those factors integrate into a system. The board is set up very well, clear labeling and room left for tinkering with the signal path, something which also helps us newbies learn the trade. Soldering all of the components was helped by very clear and easy to follow directions (read the correct set of instructions, I happened to use an older set until I realized my mistake, completely my fault.) Even after a mistake made in soldering (my fault), the board showed its toughness with my ham-fisted and unskilled attempts at removing one of the screw on terminals. Very quality board, I must say, since after completing the phono kit, along with the PSU and back panel kit, the unit powered up the first time showing no ill effects from my rough ways. No hums or buzzes, even sans the 0905 case (mine is currently sitting uncased on a piece of wood playing just fine).
It is a very clean sounding phono (I have the OPA2134s). It treats all music the same, clean and clear with good separation and definition. Compared to a Bellari tube phono I was using, it is much more neutral and defined. This is where I get the idea that it treats all music the same. The Bellari, for some reason, seemed to play rock, country, and jazz with less enthusiasm/soul than electronica or hip-hop, but it did those last two very well and soulfully. I'm not sure how much system dynamics may have effected that conclusion. As a newbie, I really appreciate this neutrality that I am perceiving. I have another blank board here at home and one more on the way which I am going to populate with different resisitors and capacitors in order to be able to see what kind of changes can be had with the switching of basic parts of a piece of equipment. For the price, general enjoyment of listening to music as well as for learning, I think, would be harder to find in other kits that might even be quite a bit more expensive.
And then there is the customer service. Skrodahl (hope I spelled that right) has been top shelf! He has answered the questions I have emailed him better than I had hoped for. After asking about a certain capacitor on the board and giving him a part number he replied soon after with a link of caps that would work (the one I had sent him would not) as well as another link with brand specific caps that would work that I had missed. He also gave me some advice on what to look out for with regards to what might harm the end result. Like I said, top shelf.
Bottom line, I am not sure how you could go wrong with this kit. Great sound, easy to do if you take care and follow the instructions, customer service is top shelf, and will help you learn aspects of audio in ways I haven't seen in other kits. Thanks again, Havard.
It is a very clean sounding phono (I have the OPA2134s). It treats all music the same, clean and clear with good separation and definition. Compared to a Bellari tube phono I was using, it is much more neutral and defined. This is where I get the idea that it treats all music the same. The Bellari, for some reason, seemed to play rock, country, and jazz with less enthusiasm/soul than electronica or hip-hop, but it did those last two very well and soulfully. I'm not sure how much system dynamics may have effected that conclusion. As a newbie, I really appreciate this neutrality that I am perceiving. I have another blank board here at home and one more on the way which I am going to populate with different resisitors and capacitors in order to be able to see what kind of changes can be had with the switching of basic parts of a piece of equipment. For the price, general enjoyment of listening to music as well as for learning, I think, would be harder to find in other kits that might even be quite a bit more expensive.
And then there is the customer service. Skrodahl (hope I spelled that right) has been top shelf! He has answered the questions I have emailed him better than I had hoped for. After asking about a certain capacitor on the board and giving him a part number he replied soon after with a link of caps that would work (the one I had sent him would not) as well as another link with brand specific caps that would work that I had missed. He also gave me some advice on what to look out for with regards to what might harm the end result. Like I said, top shelf.
Bottom line, I am not sure how you could go wrong with this kit. Great sound, easy to do if you take care and follow the instructions, customer service is top shelf, and will help you learn aspects of audio in ways I haven't seen in other kits. Thanks again, Havard.
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