MC6

The MC6 is the latest performance phono stage from Edwards Audio, designed and manufactured in the UK by TALK Electronics. It brings together decades of analogue engineering expertise in a refined, single-chassis design that delivers exceptional musical performance from both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges.

Priced at £799.95 SRP, the MC6 has been developed to challenge expectations at its price point, offering levels of clarity, dynamics and tonal accuracy more commonly associated with significantly more expensive phono stages.

True one-box design

Unlike many phono stages that rely on external power supplies, the MC6 is a fully integrated solution, housing a bespoke low-noise linear power supply within the same chassis. This approach avoids the compromises of external PSUs, delivering excellent stability, improved dynamics and a remarkably low noise floor.

Advanced RIAA equalisation

At the heart of the MC6 lies a carefully engineered RIAA equalisation circuit employing passive treble and active bass topology. This architecture achieves RIAA accuracy better than ±0.25dB across the entire audible frequency range, preserving timing, tonal balance and musical flow. The result is an open, detailed and effortlessly natural soundstage, underpinned by deep, controlled bass and strong dynamic contrasts.

Dedicated MM and MC performance

The MC6 features separate, optimised signal paths for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, selectable via a rear-panel switch. Gain and loading are configurable via internal DIP switches, allowing precise matching to a wide range of cartridges. These settings are factory-configured as standard and should only be adjusted by experienced users.

The MC6 has also been developed to deliver optimum performance when partnered with the new range of moving coil cartridges from Kensington Audio, creating a carefully matched analogue front end designed for maximum musical performance.

Low noise, high authority

A pseudo-symmetrical input stage optimised for grounding and noise rejection is combined with a fully discrete, low-impedance Class A output stage. This results in an exceptionally “black” background, outstanding resolution, and a sense of musical authority that allows recordings to breathe and perform naturally.

Designed to be seen — and heard

The non-magnetic all-aluminium enclosure reflects the MC6’s engineering ambition, while a back-lit acrylic front-panel logo provides a subtle visual cue: red illumination for MM operation and blue for MC.

International reviewers have already taken notice. Germany’s MINT magazine described the MC6 as “sensational”, adding that “in a direct comparison of its price range, the Edwards, with its warm, fine and dynamic sound, is unparalleled.”

Technical Overview

• Integrated MM / MC phono stage

• Passive treble & active bass RIAA equalisation

• Adjustable gain and loading via internal DIP switches

• FET input stage

• Fully discrete, low-impedance Class A output

• Internal low-noise linear power supply

• Pseudo-symmetrical input topology for reduced hum and noise

• RIAA accuracy: < ±0.25dB (20Hz–20kHz)

• Dynamic range: 110dB

• Signal-to-noise ratio: –68dB (500µV input)

• Standard gain: 42dB (MM) + 20dB (MC)

• Standard loading: 47kΩ (MM), 100Ω (MC)

• Non-magnetic all-aluminium enclosure

• 5-year guarantee