CLASSIC AUDIO SPARTAN 15 MKII PHONOSTAGE LAUNCHES WITH SMART UPGRADES

Michael Fidler’s Classic Audio Ltd has introduced the Classic Audio SPARTAN 15 MKII, a revised edition of its popular SPARTAN 15 moving magnet (MM) phonostage.

Building on the success of the original model, the MKII brings several thoughtful enhancements while maintaining the company’s focus on precision analogue engineering and transparency.

CLASSIC AUDIO SPARTAN 15 MKII PHONOSTAGE

A headline improvement in the SPARTAN 15 MKII is the expanded low-frequency crossfeed feature. While the original SPARTAN 15 offered a fixed 145Hz turnover point, the MKII introduces a three-position toggle switch to select between 100Hz, 145Hz, and 200Hz. This allows users to better control bass rumble and optimise playback, particularly with older or mono recordings. A mono switch remains in place to collapse stereo noise when needed.

SPARTAN 15 MKII: UPGRADED BUILD AND COMPONENTS

The SPARTAN 15 MKII continues Classic Audio’s philosophy of using through-hole components, assembled by hand in the South of England. The chassis has been restyled with a rounded, bead-blasted aluminium enclosure, now seamlessly integrated with the front and rear panels. Panel graphics are laser-etched in-house for greater durability and precision. Internally, Panasonic electrolytics, 1% metal film resistors, and high-tolerance polypropylene capacitors deliver long-term stability and tight channel matching.

HIGH-PERFORMANCE AUDIO PATH

Audio performance remains a strong point. The unit delivers over 110dB of dynamic range, with a maximum output level of 10.5V RMS. The 3rd order 22Hz subsonic filter, built with matched film capacitors, effectively removes ultra-low-frequency noise without compromising bass extension, maintaining flat response to 40Hz within 0.1dB. Gain is distributed between the input and output stages for reduced distortion—held under 0.0006% between 40Hz and 22kHz.

SMART POWER SUPPLY DESIGN

Power is supplied via an external 9V AC linear transformer, keeping electromagnetic interference away from the signal path. Unlike noisy switching supplies, this linear transformer design offers a quieter and more stable power source. A new over-voltage protection system has been introduced to help prevent accidental damage from incompatible third-party power adapters.

INTERNAL STABILITY AND FAST START-UP

Internally, the SPARTAN 15 MKII uses split ±17V rails, regulated via precision reference diodes. This design improves thermal stability and reduces power-related artefacts. A muting relay on the outputs eliminates pops and transients during power cycling. With its inherently stable architecture, the unit reaches peak performance within seconds of power-on—no prolonged warm-up or so-called “burn-in” required, says Michael.

CLASSIC AUDIO SPARTAN 15 MKII PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The SPARTAN 15 MKII is available now directly from Classic Audio Ltd. The standard black finish is joined by limited edition variants in dark grey, deep blue, and red-on-black. Prices are £360 (UK), €440 (EU), and $490 (USA), with international shipping included.Import duties may apply depending on location. For those needing moving coil capability, a limited number of SPARTAN 20 units—featuring an MC input—are also available.

HiFi PiG Says: A well priced, British-made phonostage from Michael Fidler at Classic Audio.