The Cello Etude is like the luxury car of preamps—but instead of leather seats and heated cupholders, you’re getting mind-bending sound purity with none of the fluff. Designed by Mark Levinson, the Etude doesn’t bother with flashy features or modern-day conveniences because, let’s face it, if you’re buying this thing, you probably think audio gear should be as serious as quantum physics. It's a solid-state preamp that promises to deliver your music with absolutely zero color, warmth, or fun—just raw, unadulterated "truth" in every note.
- Production
- 1987
- Condition
- 9.5/10
- Restoration
- Full functional bench test
- Detailed & ready to sing
- Factory Specs
The input impedance of the Etude is approximately 10K ohms. The input impedance of the power amplifier will affect this specification. Dimensions are: 9 1/2" width, 3 1 / 2 " height, 10 3/4" depth
*NOTE: Some source units (many CD players for example) may sound better when terminated with high impedance preamp inputs (100k Ohms — 1 Meg Ohm). In this case, please audition Cello's Audio Suite or Encore preamplifier with balanced inputs set to high input impedance (factory-set) position.
- Liner Notes
- The Etude is a passive line level selector and attenuator. Designed to last, this compact and practical unit is an ideal audio component for systems having up to four line level inputs. A power amplifier/speaker combination with adequate input sensitivity is required because no line gain is provided. Custom-made heavily gold plated Cello RCA connectors are used throughout and a grounding lug is provided. On the front panel a heavy-duty precision rotary switch with gold plated contacts selects the desired input. A Cello 59 position control precisely adjusts output level in increments of one dB from full volume to -50dB, then provides eight increments to full off. Steps are accurate when power amplifier input impedance is not less than 100K Ohms, although the minimum required power amplifier input impedance is 10k Ohms.* As with other Cello designs, the Etude employs durable aluminum bar and plate construction. This allows any panel to be replaced easily if damaged and eliminates chassis screw stripping.
- Packing
- Prepare to be impressed. We have arguably the best packing process around. We use our InstaPak machine and white open cell foam to build a custom enclosure for your piece that ensures that it's stable and secure. If it is particularly fragile or heavy, we typically opt for private courier delivery. Depending on where you are in the country, that may cost a bit extra.
- Shipping
- This piece ships to the contiguous United States for a flat rate of $50, which includes our packaging and our insurance. Of course, we'll ship anywhere in the world, just drop us a line and we'll give you an estimate – even if you're just curious.
- Stock No.
- 8799884148957
The Cello Etude is like the luxury car of preamps—but instead of leather seats and heated cupholders, you’re getting mind-bending sound purity with none of the fluff. Designed by Mark Levinson, the Etude doesn’t bother with flashy features or modern-day conveniences because, let’s face it, if you’re buying this thing, you probably think audio gear should be as serious as quantum physics. It's a solid-state preamp that promises to deliver your music with absolutely zero color, warmth, or fun—just raw, unadulterated "truth" in every note.
