Sota has a solid reputation for crafting some of the best turntables in the market. So, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Pyxi phono stage turns out to be great. But to be fair, let’s review the device comprehensively to see what it offers. Then, you can decide whether to get it or not.

SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage Overview

The Pyxi phono stage from Sota features an output impedance of 50 Ω to support single-ended connections and boost signal transfer. 

It includes a channel matching better than 0.1 dB at 1 kHz and excellent channel separation greater than 80 dB, which is essential to reduce cross-talk and maintain clarity. Not forgetting a broad bandwidth of less than 1 Hz to 150 kHz to ensure an accurate reproduction of sound signals.

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Technical Specifications

Specifications for this device differ depending on the cartridge type. Check them below:

Moving Coil (MC) cartridge

  • Input sensitivity: 250 µV rms @ 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec.
  • Rated output specified at 12 dB above sensitivity (1 mV rms, 1 kHz) to capture signal dynamics. Gain: 65 dB @ 1 kHz
  • Rated output: 1.8 V rms. Rated peak 3dB higher.
  • THD: < 0.0002% @ 1 kHz, 1 mV rms input, <0.0003% @ 10 kHz, 10 mV rms input. IMD: >< 0.003% @ 10kHz, 10 mV rms input
  • IMD: < 0.002% CCIF 20 kHz/19 kHz 1:1 measured at rated output
  • S/N ratio: 82 dBA, relative to 1 mV rms @ 1 kHz. Shorted input.
  • Hum levels: > 96 dB below rated output, shorted inputs.
  • RIAA compliance: 20 Hz – 20 kHz: within 0.15 dB p-p.
  • Input overload levels, nominal gain @ 1 kHz: 5.5 mV rms (27 dB relative to input sensitivity)

Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge

  • Input sensitivity: 2.5 mV rms @ 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec.
  • Rated output specified at 12 dB above sensitivity (10 mV rms, 1 kHz) to capture signal dynamics.
  • Gain: 45 dB @ 1 kHz. Rated output: 1.8 V rms. Rated peak 3dB higher.
  • THD: < 0.0002% @ 1 kHz, 10 mV rms input, < 0.001% @ 10 kHz, 100 mV rms input
  • IMD: < 0.003% CCIF 20 kHz/19 kHz 1:1 measured at rated output.
  • S/N ratio: 98 dBA, relative to 10 mV rms @ 1 kHz input. Shorted input.
  • 78 dBA, relative to 10 mV rms @ 1 kHz, 1.3 kΩ in series with 500 mH across input. Load representative of typical (e.g Shure V15 III) MM cartridges.
  • Hum levels: > 96 dB below rated output, shorted input.
  • RIAA compliance: 20 Hz – 20 kHz: within 0.15 dB p-p.
  • Input overload level, nominal gain @ 1 kHz: 55 mV rms (27 dB relative to input sensitivity)

SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage Mechanism

This phono stage magnifies the low-level signal from your turntable’s cartridge so it can be connected to a standard line-level input on a receiver or amplifier. The main focus of the design is to provide clear, accurate amplification with the least noise or distortion.

Is SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage Automatic or Manual?

This gadget is purely manual. It offers an analog design with no digital components included. The all-analog implementation enables Pyxi to deliver an authentic audio experience.

Usability and Portability of SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage

SOTA pyxi is user-friendly, and you can navigate it easily, thanks to the easy-to-understand manual that the manufacturer provides. 

The controls are also clearly labeled to prevent confusion during setup. It is lightweight and easy to transport from one place to another. This makes the device a good choice for audiophiles who need the convenience of moving it between different setups.

SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage Design & Build

The phono stage has a simple design. On the front panel, you have a power button and a toggle switch for the MC/MM cartridges on either side. The logo “Pyxia by Sota” is right in the middle. RCA inputs and outputs are located at the back, alongside a hookup for the ground wire. An input for the 14-volt wall wart power supply is also at the rear side. 

Connectivity & Sound Performance of SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage: Good, and…

There are RCA inputs for connecting the device to your turntable and RCA outputs for connecting it to a preamplifier or amplifier. A selectable input impedance is provided to help you adjust the settings to suit your cartridge’s requirements. In case you want to minimize ground noise, a ground lift is available.

Pyxi is associated with good sound, and you’ll be amazed how it can help extract a lot of detail from some of your classic albums. It can illustrate dynamics and punch, possibly better than those above its price range. Not only is the soundstage deep, but also wide, expanding the feeling of openness in the room.

Main Technology Perks of SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage

The Pyxi phono stage offers advanced circuitry to ensure noise hardly comes out of your system so you can enjoy your music better.  It can also accommodate different cartridge types, thanks to the selectable input impedance.

Pricing

This phono stage is available for $300 on Sota’s official page, but the price may be higher on other platforms. Also available on eBay

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How to Setup & Use SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage?

Setting the Pyxi is relatively simple. Follow these steps to get started:

  1. Connect the tonearm’s signal leads to the phono preamp while ensuring the right channel (red) and left channel (white) are correctly oriented.
  2. Link the phono preamp’s output to a line input (like AUX or CD) on your amplifier.
  3. The best grounding method is to keep the turntable cartridge connections separate from the turntable chassis ground. Also, let the phono stage be grounded through the amplifier via the output cables. However, if you hear a hum, use the provided ground wire to connect the phono preamp’s ground terminal to the amplifier’s ground connection.
  4. Plug the AC adapter into the preamp’s 14 VAC socket, then connect it to a wall outlet.
  5. Turn on the phono preamp using the front panel button. It will be ready to use after about four seconds.
  6. You can turn your amplifier on or off at any time since the phono preamp’s design eliminates any unwanted noise during power transitions.
  7. Choose the setting you want (MM/MC) using the front panel.
  8. All that’s left is to select your favorite album and give it a spin.

To get the best experience with the phono stage, let it warm up first and use the correct settings that align with your cartridge type for the best audio fidelity

Overall Impression About SOTA Pyxi Turntable Part/Phono Stage?

The Sota Pyxi phono stage is a simple yet incredible device that can enhance your listening experience.

Pros

Here are the device’s advantages:

  • Compact size
  • User-friendly
  • Compatible with MM/MC cartridges
  • Versatile connectivity options
  • Budget-friendly

Cons

Below are the cons:

  • Fewer customization options than in some high-end models

Who Is It For?

This phono stage is ideal for new and advanced audiophiles who desire to experience a warm, detailed sound from their systems.

Final Verdict

If you have been looking for a new phono stage or want an upgrade from your current one, the Pyxi is definitely worth your attention. I am confident you are going to like it. The value proposition is good, and with the nice quality features offered, $300 is a damn bargain.

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