The LOC Analog Legacy Universal Playback Equalizer. Reference RIAA preamplifier. Includes a complete archivist’s signal path for sonically invisible transfer of virtually any legacy recording format, including all varieties of 78, 45, 33, and vertical groove pressings. A wide range of bypassable filters offer additional flexibility for repair and tailoring of damaged sources.

 

Professional Phonographic Preamplifier with RIAA + Archival Compensation & Corrective EQ

 

    * True differentially balanced phonographic preamplifier topology
    * User-definable (universal) compensation and loading parameters
    * Sets new precedent in phonographic sonic invisibility
    * Ultra-premium transformerless componentry throughout
    * Gold relays, connectors & switches. Hand machined aluminum cosmetics
    * Extremely low noise (-125 db flat). Pure class-a discrete j-FET filters
    * Effortless, lifelike musical performance at all dynamic levels
    * Constructed for life, cosmetically appealing
    * Lundahl MC transformer option included at no additional charge (bypassable)

 

The LOC Analog Legacy phonograph playback system is a hand-crafted collection of Millennia's essential, 100% DC coupled preamplifier and equalizer circuitry tailored specifically for the needs of archiving and mastering professionals. Audiophiles requiring a sonically uncompromised phono path will also benefit. The LOC was originally specified under contract for the U.S. Government (Library of Congress, Culpeper VA). Since then, the LOC has been acquired by archiving and mastering labs throughout the world.

 

The LOC offers a selectable mono or stereo playback environment which can be used with any modern or legacy phonograph cartridge. Any known style of record pressing can be compensated perfectly with the LOC, including vertical groove processes. When the LOC does not offer a precise preset compensation point, a user may define virtually any compensation via passive plug-in components.

 

LOC employs a discrete-hybrid design topology from input to output, utilizing both discrete bipolar and field-effect transistors where they are optimally applied for Millennia's hallmark sonic invisibility. The LOC accepts balanced line-level or phono-level input via gold XLR connectors. Unbalanced RCA inputs are also provided. Ten discrete outputs are provided on both gold XLR and RCA phono connectors. Mains powering is worldwide (100V-240V).

 

The Legacy offers forty-nine combinations of preset compensation curves for precise performance with all formats, including 33-1/3 (RIAA), 45, and a vast array of 78 RPM EQ formats.  Legacy’s phono compensation network has only one active amplifier stage in the audio signal path. Compare this with textbook phono designs employing anywhere from two to five compensation path amplifiers. Fewer amplifier stages means greater sonic integrity and heightened musical reality. This single all discrete Class-A stage is optimized as input buffer, compensation amplifier, and output driver. It's something you must hear to appreciate.

 

Legacy’s phonograph preamplifier design is based upon Millennia’s acclaimed HV-3 mic preamp topology, a world standard in classical and critical acoustic music production. Utilizing a discrete-hybrid, fully differential balanced design — phono signals remain differentially balanced throughout the entire preamplifier path. The LOC features 36 discrete gain steps of 1.5 dB per step to 60 dB (up to 90 dB upon request), user-selectable (unlimited) capacitive and resistive loading, mono and polarity select switching for vertically grooved pressings, stereo gain matching to .08 dB, and an entirely transformerless audio signal path (Lundahl MC transformer option included at no additional charge).

 

Rounding out the LOC feature set is a collection of four surgical filters which will isolate and correct problem areas associated with groove degradation and surface noise. Legacy filters offer both shelving and peaking response with a number of user-selectable frequencies via Grayhill military grade gold contact rotary switches. If not required, all filter sections can be removed entirely from Legacy’s signal path for increased sonic integrity.

 

LOC Legacy’s pure Class A amplifiers are carefully designed around the finest grades of passive components from Vishay, Roederstein MELF, Wima, Toroid Tech, and German ITT.  Key electro-mechanical design features include a 16 gauge cold-rolled plated steel chassis (26 pounds), 3/8” thick radiused aluminum face panel which is deeply polished in a “piano lacquer” black anodize finish, hand machined and polished black aluminum knurl knobs, and custom molded illuminated switches.
One listening session with the LOC will immediately confirm that Millennia has once again set precedence in musical realism and sonic transparency.