Creek OBH-8 MK2 Phono Preamplifier
Original price was: 130,00 €.90,00 €Current price is: 90,00 €.
Creek OBH-8 MK2 is a phono preamplifier designed for turntables fitted with MM cartridges. Its fixed 40 dB gain prepares the turntable signal for an amplifier’s line-level input. The specified 47 kΩ and 220 pF loading clearly defines the suitable cartridge requirements. A compact metal enclosure takes up little space, while the wide mains input range accommodates different electrical systems.
Creek OBH-8 MK2 is a standalone phono preamplifier designed for turntables fitted with MM cartridges. It prepares the turntable’s low-level signal for a line-level input on an amplifier. Its fixed 40 dB gain and specified 47 kΩ and 220 pF loading clearly define its intended application.
This model replaces the original OBH-8 MM phono preamplifier. It is suitable for a system whose amplifier does not include an integrated phono input. A separate phono preamplifier can also be used instead of an amplifier’s existing phono stage, but its output must then be connected to a line-level input.
Who is this phono preamplifier for?
The OBH-8 MK2 is designed for an MM turntable cartridge (moving-magnet cartridge). Its gain and cartridge loading are fixed. Before choosing a cartridge, it is therefore worth comparing the cartridge manufacturer’s recommended load with the OBH-8 MK2’s 47 kΩ resistance and 220 pF capacitance.
MC cartridges generally require different gain and loading. This model is not presented as an MC phono preamplifier. It is best suited to buyers looking for a clearly specified solution for an MM cartridge, without additional adjustment or setup controls.
Connecting it to an audio system
The turntable signal is first sent to the phono preamplifier. Its line-level output is then connected to an analogue line input on the amplifier. You can use an AUX, CD or another equivalent line-level input.
Do not connect the phono preamplifier’s output to another phono input. Doing so would apply phono equalisation and amplification twice. This could cause overload and produce an incorrect frequency balance.
In a home cinema system, the unit can be connected to an analogue line input on an AV receiver. The receiver must be able to accept an analogue line-level signal. The phono preamplifier itself does not switch between sources or convert the signal into a digital format.
Fixed settings and initial setup
The fixed 40 dB gain requires no separate adjustment. There is also no need to set cartridge load resistance or capacitance. This makes initial setup straightforward when the selected MM cartridge is compatible with the specified loading.
Begin listening with the amplifier volume set low, then gradually raise it to your usual listening level. The maximum output level of 6.1 V RMS provides headroom, but the final playback volume is controlled by the system amplifier.
Enclosure and system placement
The low-profile metal enclosure measures 100 mm wide, 48 mm high and 80 mm deep. Its compact size makes it easy to place near the turntable or amplifier. The enclosure is available only in black.
A phono signal is weak and sensitive to electrical interference. Place the unit on a stable surface and keep it away from large mains transformers. It is also advisable to separate signal cables from power cables where practical.
The stated weight of 0.4 kg includes the OBH-Uni power adapter. This distinction is important when considering the weight of the unit itself. The small enclosure should not be left suspended by stiff signal cables.
Audio signal performance
The specified frequency response extends from 10 Hz to 100 kHz with a tolerance of ±0.5 dB. This figure describes the declared response of the phono preamplifier itself; it is not a promise of the frequency range that a particular turntable or cartridge will reproduce.
Specified channel separation is greater than 70 dB. A signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 76 dB describes the unit’s low internal noise level.
Total harmonic distortion plus noise is below 0.003 percent under the stated measurement conditions. This figure applies at an output of 2 V RMS, with 40 dB gain, across frequencies from 1 to 10 kHz.
An output impedance below 100 Ω helps the unit pass its signal to an amplifier’s line input. Long cables may nevertheless be more susceptible to interference, so keeping the phono preamplifier close to the rest of the audio equipment is a practical arrangement.
Power supply
The unit consumes 3 W. Its power supply accommodates 100-250 V AC at 50 or 60 Hz. The OBH-Uni adapter is specified with interchangeable plugs for UK, North American and European mains sockets.
Technical specifications
| Product type | MM phono preamplifier |
|---|---|
| Intended use | Turntables with MM cartridges |
| Model generation | Replacement for the original OBH-8 MM phono preamplifier |
| Gain | 40 dB, fixed |
| Cartridge load resistance | 47 kΩ |
| Cartridge load capacitance | 220 pF |
| Frequency response | 10 Hz-100 kHz, ±0.5 dB |
| THD plus noise | <0.003% at 2 V RMS output, 40 dB gain and frequencies from 1-10 kHz |
| Channel separation | >70 dB |
| Signal-to-noise ratio | >76 dB |
| Overload margin | >-21 dB, measurement conditions not specified |
| Maximum output level | 6.1 V RMS |
| Output impedance | <100 Ω |
| Enclosure | Low-profile metal enclosure |
| Finish | Black |
| Dimensions | 100 × 48 × 80 mm, width × height × depth |
| Weight | 0.4 kg, including the OBH-Uni power adapter |
| Power consumption | 3 W |
| Mains supply | 100-250 V AC, 50/60 Hz |
| Regional plugs | Interchangeable plugs for UK, North American and European mains sockets |
FAQ
Is this phono preamplifier suitable for an MC cartridge?
No. It is designed for MM cartridges. An MC cartridge normally requires higher gain or a separate matching solution.
How do I connect it to a stereo amplifier?
Connect the turntable to the phono preamplifier, then connect the preamplifier’s output to an analogue line input. Do not use the amplifier’s phono input.
Can it be used with an AV receiver?
Yes, provided that the AV receiver has an analogue line input. The phono preamplifier prepares the turntable signal for this type of input.
Do I need to adjust the gain?
No. The gain is fixed, as are the cartridge loading values, so the selected MM cartridge should be compatible with these conditions.
Where should I place the phono preamplifier?
Place it near the turntable and amplifier, but away from strong sources of electromagnetic interference. This also helps keep the signal path short.
Can I connect it to an integrated phono input?
No. Its output is already at line level and must therefore be connected to a line-level input on the amplifier.
Which mains plug is included?
The product information lists interchangeable UK, North American and European plugs. Before purchasing, it is advisable to confirm which plug is supplied with the specific package.
