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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a phono stage, and why do I need one?
A phono stage, also called a phono preamplifier, boosts the very low signal from a turntable cartridge and applies RIAA equalization so it is ready for your amplifier. Without one, a turntable sounds faint and thin. Zesto Audio specializes in all-tube phono stages, and Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada carries the Andros range from the Andros Spirit up to the Andros Téssera Reference.
What makes a tube phono stage different?
A tube phono stage uses vacuum tubes in its circuit, which many listeners prize for a natural, dimensional, and musical presentation. Zesto Audio is known for all-tube analog phono stages built by hand, including the Andros Spirit, Andros II, Andros Deluxe II, and the reference Andros Téssera. Our team can help you choose based on your cartridge and system.
Do Zesto phono stages work with moving magnet and moving coil cartridges?
Yes, depending on the model. The Andros Spirit is offered in moving magnet or moving magnet and moving coil versions, and the higher Andros models are designed for a range of cartridges. Because moving coil cartridges output a smaller signal, they need enough gain and the right loading, which is what these designs provide. Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada can help you match one to your cartridge.
What is a step-up transformer, and when do I need one?
A step-up transformer, or SUT, boosts the tiny signal from a low output moving coil cartridge so it can feed a moving magnet phono input with proper gain and low noise. Zesto Audio makes the Andros Allasso step-up MC transformer for exactly this purpose. If you run a low output moving coil cartridge, we can advise whether a SUT suits your setup.
Is a phono stage the same as a preamp?
A phono stage is a specialized preamp for turntables, adding extra gain and RIAA equalization that a line-level preamp does not provide. A linestage preamp handles line-level sources like a DAC or CD player. Zesto makes both, including Andros phono stages and the Leto Ultra II linestage preamplifier, so you can build a full Zesto front end.
What is a Class A amplifier?
A Class A amplifier keeps its output devices fully conducting at all times, which many listeners associate with smooth, low-distortion, and natural sound, at the cost of running warmer and less efficiently. Zesto Audio offers Class A tube amplification, including the Bia 200 Select stereo power amplifier and the Eros 500 Select monoblock amplifiers. You can hear them at Vinyl Sound in Toronto, Canada.
Does Zesto make a tube DAC?
Yes. The Zesto Athena Tube DAC brings Zesto's tube design approach to digital playback, so you can enjoy a consistent tube character across both vinyl and digital sources. This lets you build a complete Zesto system from phono stage to amplification to digital. Our team can explain how it fits your setup.
Which Zesto component should I start with?
Many listeners begin with a Zesto phono stage, since it is the heart of a vinyl front end. The Andros Spirit is the accessible entry into Zesto's all-tube phono stages, with the Andros II, Andros Deluxe II, and Andros Téssera Reference offering further refinement. From there you can add the Leto Ultra II preamplifier and Bia 200 or Eros 500 amplifiers. Tell us your system and we will help you plan.
Where can I buy Zesto Audio in Canada?
Vinyl Sound carries the full Zesto Audio range in Toronto, Canada, with shipping across Canada. Buying from us means genuine Zesto Audio products with support for matching each component to your system.
