X-Mod Upgrades Available for PHONO-1 MK II L Units
Nine years on from its debut - and following landmark upgrades to Mk II in 2019 and the ‘L’ in 2022 - PHONO-1 enters its most significant evolution yet. The new PHONO-1 LX offers darker backgrounds, higher dynamic range, razor-sharp spatial imaging and a vocal texture so lifelike, the performance feels present in the room.
Influenced by the development of the LunA dedicated DC power supply, designer Touraj Moghaddam realised he could use the same ideas within the PHONO-1 MK II L phono stage.
By upgrading a few internal components - using experience and technology originally developed for CALON and then utilised in LunA we unlocked additional performance without significantly redesigning the PHONO-1.
What is the X-Mod?
The ‘X-Mod’ is not only an upgrade to fresh production of the PHONO-1 but also a retro-upgradable modification that brings existing PHONO-1 MKII L models on par with the PHONO-1 LX . Applied to a 2026 spec PHONO-1 MK II L with the two-way switch (serial number V004000 onwards) this brings the unit to production PHONO-1 LX specification.
Any PHONO-1 Mk II L with the previous three-way grounding switch will have components upgraded to PHONO-1 LX level. The casework and PCB will remain the same.
Which versions cannot have X-Mod applied?
Unfortunately due to certain changes in the design over the years, not all PHONO-1 models are able to be upgraded.
The ‘X-Mod’ cannot be applied to the non-L MKII or the original MKI.
To find out if your unit is eligible for upgrade, please contact your local dealer.
Possible Variations
Some early Phono-1 Mk II (Non-L) models also have serial numbers that fall within the 4000s. This is due to the reset of serial numbers that came with the Mk II L range.
Units are only upgradable if the serial number includes the barcode and 'V' prefix shown below. If it's missing these, the unit cannot be upgraded.
Another quick way to check: units with a silver chassis (bottom and rear) instead of the current black version are not upgradable.
