Rothwell — Analogue accessories
Headspace moving coil headamp
Unlocking the true potential of your low-output moving coil cartridge.
The Headspace functions as an essential partner for the vinyl enthusiast, providing the necessary amplification for low-output moving coil cartridges before they reach a standard moving magnet phono-stage. By handling these microvolt-level signals with extreme precision, it ensures that no detail is lost to noise or distortion at the very beginning of the signal chain.
Positioned within the Rothwell catalogue as a premium analogue accessory, the Headspace draws upon the brand's extensive experience with discrete transistor circuitry. It serves those who possess a high-quality moving magnet phono-stage but wish to explore the superior resolution of moving coil designs without investing in a completely new system.
The character of the Headspace is defined by its speed, linearity, and neutrality. It excels at preserving the rapid transients and subtle harmonic textures present on high-quality pressings, ensuring the sound remains open, dynamic, and emotionally engaging throughout the listening experience.
Key Features
01
Discrete class A gain stage
Utilises a custom high-performance discrete transistor circuit to avoid the inherent limitations of standard op-amps.
02
Minimalist signal path
Engineered without global feedback to ensure an exceptionally natural sound and superior transient response.
03
Advanced power management
Features dedicated battery power operation to eliminate mains-borne noise and provide a silent background.
04
Precision impedance matching
Optimised to accommodate a wide variety of low-output moving coil cartridges, ensuring accurate signal transfer.
Chapter 01
Design Philosophy
The Headspace is founded on the principle that the first stage of amplification is the most critical in an analogue system. By using battery power, the design completely isolates the sensitive input circuit from the electrical noise present in mains supply lines, allowing for a remarkably clean signal.
Chapter 02
Engineering Notes
The choice of a discrete transistor architecture rather than an integrated circuit is deliberate. This allows for greater control over the circuit's behaviour, resulting in a more open and detailed presentation that reveals the nuance of high-end cartridges without adding character or coloration to the signal.
Chapter 03
Sonic Signature
In operation, the Headspace acts as a pure conduit for music. Users will notice an immediate improvement in the clarity of the soundstage and a tighter, more authoritative reproduction of bass frequencies, ensuring the music remains vibrant and lifelike.
Specifications
Gain10dB, 20dB, 25dB, 27dB
Input impedance55R, 65R, 80R, 100R, 140R, 200R, 360R, 1.5k
Output impedance<100 ohms
Headroom>20 db
Power supply24 volts DC, center +ve
Mains voltage100V - 250V AC
Power consumption1W
Dimensions60 x 155 x 92 mm
Weight570g (exc. psu)
Packed weight770g (inc. psu)