Musical Fidelity V-LPS II review

Plenty of weight and a smooth tonal character, but could be better balanced Tested at £120

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Plenty of weight and a smooth tonal character, but could be better balanced

Pros

  • +

    Affordable price tag

  • +

    Bass depth

  • +

    Decent detail

Cons

  • -

    Loose bass affects timing

  • -

    Divisive design

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Better known for its amplifiers and other hi-fi components higher up the price scale, the six-strong Musical Fidelity V series aims to bring some of this expertise to a more affordable price point, such as with this V-LPS II phono stage.

Musical Fidelity V-LPS II

Musical Fidelity V-LPS II

The Musical Fidelity V-LPS II phono stage has the same compact dimensions as the rest of the accessories, with (tight) MM and MC phono connections at one end and the phono output at power connection at the other. We must admit, it seems a little untidy…

But it’s what’s inside that counts, and this phono stage sounds weighty and solid – although the bass is arguably a little too pronounced, and certainly a little loose, which has an adverse affect on the overall timing of your tunes.

There’s decent detail, however, good clarity to treble notes and an overall smoothness to the sound. We're less convinced when we use the MC connection, which sounds a little disorganised – this isn't a surprise on a relatively affordable phono amp.

Musical Fidelity V-LPS II: verdict

For an affordable phono stage, the Musical Fidelity V-LPS II produces admirable results, not least if you want a rich, bass-led sound.

See all our phono stage Best Buys

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.


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