Ray Samuels F-117 Nighthawk Phono Stage

Frank Alles has posted a review of the Ray Samuels F-117 Nighthawk Phono Stage ($795) at Stereo Times. His conclusion:

The Ray Samuels F-117 Nighthawk phono stage is quite an impressive component. It features long battery life with fast recharging, front-panel rotary knobs for making gain and loading adjustments, and fantastic low-noise performance.

Yes, it can be outmaneuvered in terms of soundstage depth, ultimate resolution and bass extension by phono stages costing multiples of its price, but I suspect its focused and natural demeanor will win over many audiophiles’ hearts.

Factory-direct pricing eliminates the typical middle-man mark up and allows this unit to compete with more expensive phono stages than would otherwise be possible. Also please note that the Nighthawk is a hand-built component, made right here in the USA.

In my opinion, everyone who is serious about achieving affordable vinyl bliss should own at least one of these. I am buying my review sample because I surely don’t want the Nighthawk to leave my listening room anytime soon. It has worked its stealthy magic on these ears. Highly recommended!

You can read the full review here.