Fonolab Lounge - Contemporary Analog Audio

24/04/2026

24/04/2026

fonolab Dual-Approach Step-Up Architecture

Choose your architecture.

Start from the cartridge.

MC requires signal transformation.
MM requires interface control.

Different architectures define different signal behavior.

This is how we approach system design at fonolab.

There is no universal solution.

Only the one that matches your system.

       

20/04/2026

QVATTVOR 4x4

True Balanced MC Step-Up Transformer — Engineering Implementation

Maximum structural control within the QVATTVOR architecture.

Each channel operates as an independent magnetic system in a fully differential dual mono configuration.

Signal behaviour is defined by symmetry, channel separation, and controlled coupling.

No shared magnetic path.

Minimal cross-interaction between channels.

The result is stable, predictable signal behaviour throughout the transformation process.

QVATTVOR 4x4 is defined by control and repeatability.

       

19/04/2026

MANNVS II
Balanced MM Interface System

Integrated architecture for MM/MI signal transfer.

MANNVS II combines transformer coupling and impedance control within a single interface stage.

Signal transfer and electrical interaction are defined together.

A broadband transformer (1:2) provides controlled coupling, moderate voltage gain (+6 dB) and conversion to a floating balanced output.

A parallel LR network defines frequency-dependent loading and cartridge–stage interaction.

Galvanic isolation is maintained between input and output, reducing sensitivity to grounding conditions.

Single-ended input.
True balanced XLR output.

Designed for systems requiring precise MM interface control and integration into fully balanced signal chains.

       

18/04/2026

QVATTVOR Classic

True Balanced MC Step-Up Transformer — Heritage Implementation

A structured expression of the Heritage approach.

QVATTVOR Classic extends signal continuity into a fully balanced architecture.

Matched transformer pairs define a stable and coherent magnetic field, while preserving the natural flow of the cartridge.

Signal behaviour is not simplified, it is stabilized.

The system remains continuous, but gains structure, separation, and spatial control.

QVATTVOR Classic is not about minimal intervention.

It is about maintaining musical continuity within a defined and repeatable structure.

       

17/04/2026

EQVES Model 1

Single-Ended MC Step-Up Transformer / Heritage Implementation

The most direct expression of the Heritage approach.

EQVES preserves signal continuity through a minimal magnetic topology and a shortened signal path.

No differential structure.
No additional signal organization.

The transformer remains closely coupled to the cartridge, allowing the system to behave as a single continuous structure.

The result is immediate, coherent signal flow with minimal structural intervention.

EQVES is not about control.

It is about preserving the natural behaviour of the cartridge within the system.

       

14/04/2026

MM INTERFACE CONTROL

Defined interaction between MM/MI cartridge and MM phono stage.

Not amplification, but controlled electrical matching.

Three implementations:
– CVRRVS
– MANNVS
– MANNVS II

CVRRVS is a passive interface stage based on a parallel LR impedance network.

MANNVS and MANNVS II incorporate a transformer stage providing moderate voltage gain and controlled impedance transformation.

In MANNVS II, this control layer is integrated and the transformer also creates a true balanced output.

Each model defines a specific interface condition between source and input stage.

Same principle.
Different implementations.

12/04/2026

fonolab Dual-Approach Step-Up Architecture

QVATTVOR PLATFORM

Qvattvor defines a balanced transformer architecture as a foundation for system design.

It establishes:
– fully differential signal structure
– channel symmetry
– controlled signal path

Within this architecture, different system behaviors can be implemented.

Heritage and Engineering are not separate designs.

They are different behaviors built on the same balanced platform.

Qvattvor is the structure.

Behavior is defined by its implementation.

       

11/04/2026

fonolab Dual-Approach Step-Up Architecture

ENGINEERING SERIES

Designed for defined and repeatable signal behavior.

Transformer operation is fixed by design:
– defined winding structure
– controlled coupling
– stable reference conditions

User control is limited to a single parameter: pass or alternative load resistance - following cartridge recommendations.

This does not change the architecture.

It ensures correct electrical matching.

The result is consistent, predictable performance across systems.

No tuning.

No variability.

Just controlled, repeatable behavior.

       

10/04/2026

fonolab Dual-Approach Step-Up Architecture

HERITAGE SERIES

Designed for controlled signal behavior, not fixed voicing.

Selectable behavior is achieved through different winding configurations and their interaction within the system.

Not by changing gain, but by defining how the transformer is referenced, coupled, and grounded.

Focus on:
– musical continuity
– harmonic integration
– flexible winding logic

The same transformer can operate under different electrical conditions, leading to different system responses.

This is not a preset.

This is control over interaction.

       

09/04/2026

We are pleased to announce that all key products from the Heritage Series and the MM Interface Control Stage are now available for audition and evaluation in Yokohama, Japan.

This is made possible thanks to our official representative and distributor in Japan, エクス・オーディオ

🔗 For more info on this please check the link in our BIO.