The primary benefit of integrating the proprietary MANLEY POWER® switch-mode power supply is the achievement of an even quieter "blacker black" background. This superior low-noise floor is crucial for a phono stage, which deals with extremely low-level signals from a cartridge. The highly regulated and stable B+ voltage allows the tubes to operate optimally, yielding quicker sonic extremes, enhanced clarity, and greater dynamic distance between instruments, which is a significant sonic improvement over older linear power supply designs.

The output stage of the OASIS is handled by a 6922 dual triode operating in Manley's favored White Follower configuration. This circuit is known for its super-low output impedance (104 Ohms) and beefy current-driving capabilities. It is designed to effortlessly drive long cable lengths and difficult loads, whether they are tube or solid-state. This robust output stage ensures that the pristine signal from the gain stages is delivered with authority and fidelity to the next component in your audio chain.

Yes, the OASIS Phono Stage is highly versatile and suitable for both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges. It offers four rear-panel GAIN selections (45dB, 50dB, 60dB, or 65dB) to accommodate the nominal output levels of virtually any cartridge type. The extensive set of input loading DIP switches also provides ideal resistive and capacitive loading options for both MM (typically 47k Ohms plus capacitance) and MC (numerous choices from 26 Ohms to 800 Ohms) cartridges.

The RIAA curve is a standardized equalization applied during the mastering and cutting of vinyl records, which reduces the bass frequencies and boosts the treble frequencies. The RIAA equalization network in the OASIS performs the decoding task to restore the originally intended flat frequency response to the audio signal. The OASIS performs this correction with a high degree of accuracy, showing a deviation of less than +-0.5 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring that your records are reproduced precisely and musically.¹²

Cartridge loading on the OASIS is adjusted easily and externally via banks of DIP switches located on the rear panel. There are 31 possible options between 26 Ohms and 800 Ohms, plus 47 kOhms, for resistive loading (typically for MC and MM). Additionally, there are 7 capacitive loading choices between 50 pF and 350 pF to fine-tune the high-frequency response. Once set for your specific cartridge, the configuration is retained, allowing you to "set it and forget it."

The sound of the OASIS is best described as highly musical, detailed, and transparent, with the inherent liquidity and dynamic sense of space that good tube-powered components impart. While it uses vacuum tubes, which are often associated with "warmth," the circuit design is focused on supreme linearity and clarity. The exceptionally low noise floor achieved by MANLEY POWER® ensures that the subtle tube character is presented against a quiet background, making the sound open, natural, and highly detailed rather than overly colored.