2. amps-preamps
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Phase Inversion in Preamplifer?

I just bought a used Audible Illusions 2D here on a'gon. This will be my first venture into separates. I've learned that AI preamps have inverted phase, so it's recommended that I switch +/- polarities at the speaker-amp hook-up. OK. But according to AI literature the phono stage of the preamp is NOT inverted, only the output stage is. So, since I listen to both vinyl and CDs, what do I do? Should I reverse speaker wire polarity or not?

Incidentally, the amp I'll be using is an ATI 1502 -- still haven't been able to find out if it inverts polarity or not. But based on my (limited) research thus far it appears that phase inversion is a design of preamplifiers more than power amplifiers. Is that right?

Thanks,
Rich
winegasman
david_berry
211 posts
 
It does appear that the phase inversion issue happens more in preamps than in amps.
I do not believe that it make a great difference at all. My Joule Electra LA 150 preamp inverts phase as well and in my research it really does not matter and is not something to keep you up at night.
Also keep in mind that even within the same CD, the songs can/do flip/flop the phase.
winegasman OP
100 posts
 
Yes, thanks for the reply, but what about the fact that the phono stage is not inverted while the rest is? Is this anything I need to do anything about?
larryi
3,887 posts
 
I have a preamp that allows for inversion of phase by remote control. Yes, one can hear a difference quite readily. But, with most recordings, the difference is subtle, and it is not entirely clear which is the preferred setting (e.g., with one setting the vocals may be more realistic, while the piano becomes unnaturally phasey).

Because recordings seem to be all over the place, there is no reason to really worry about phase if you don't have the means (and will) to switch on a recording-by-recording basis. That kind of switching is only practicable with a phase switch, preferrably, one switch by remote.
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