Linn Uphorik Phono Stage

The Uphorik is Linn's external standalone phono stage — a proper, dedicated unit for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, not a token add-on to an integrated amplifier. It sits outside the LP12 and connects between your turntable and preamplifier in the normal way, which means it is suitable for any LP12 configuration and for any turntable with an appropriate cartridge.

Where the Urika and Urika II are internal phono stages designed specifically for LP12 installations with Radikal power, the Uphorik is a universal solution. If you want a Linn-quality phono stage without the internal LP12 fitting, or if you run a non-Linn turntable alongside your LP12, the Uphorik is the relevant product.

Circuit Design

The Uphorik uses dedicated, separate circuits for moving magnet and moving coil inputs — not a shared circuit switched between modes. Each cartridge type has its own optimised signal path. The circuit architecture is dual mono throughout, with complete internal shielding between left and right channels to minimise crosstalk.

The inputs are fully screened differential circuits, designed to reject common-mode noise — interference picked up equally on both signal wires is cancelled out before it reaches the gain stage. This matters particularly with long tonearm cables and in environments with electrical interference.

Gain and impedance loading are configurable via front-panel switches, allowing the Uphorik to be optimised for a wide range of cartridges without any internal modification. When you change cartridges, you adjust the switches. The Uphorik grows with your system.

Both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs are provided.

Power Supply

The Uphorik uses a Linn Dynamik Switch Mode Power Supply — the same technology Linn uses across its electronics range. The Dynamik SMPS provides clean, regulated power with low radiated interference, operating efficiently across mains voltage variations. It is a better solution than a conventional transformer-based supply at this price point.

Uphorik vs Urika

The question of Uphorik versus Urika comes down to system architecture. If you have an LP12 with Radikal and want the best possible performance within the LP12 platform itself, the internal Urika (analogue) or Urika II (digital/Exakt) is the right choice — the short signal path inside the plinth is a genuine advantage at this level. If you want a phono stage that works across your whole system, accommodates MM and MC, and does not require professional installation inside the turntable, the Uphorik is the correct answer. They serve different purposes rather than competing directly.

Technical Specifications

Note: Specific gain figures and impedance loading ranges are not published by Linn in marketing materials. Confirm exact values with Linn documentation or at point of purchase.

Who Is It For?

The Uphorik is the right choice for LP12 owners who want a high-quality analogue phono stage without internal LP12 fitting — for example, on a Lingo-equipped LP12 where Radikal power is not available, or where the preference is to keep the phono stage external and accessible. It is also the correct phono stage for a non-Linn turntable in a high-quality system, or for anyone who runs both MM and MC cartridges and wants a single unit capable of both.

Buying from Martins Hi-Fi

Martins Hi-Fi has been in Norwich since 1968, and the Linn range has been part of what we do for years. We are still family-run — Ted Martin's daughter Elizabeth runs the business today — and we stock only brands we have heard properly and stand behind.

The Uphorik is a standalone unit — no specialist installation is required, though we are happy to advise on configuration for your specific cartridge and help you get the best from it. For LP12 owners, do ask about professional LP12 servicing at the same time.

Reach them at dave@martinshifi.co.uk, chris@martinshifi.co.uk, info@martinshifi.co.uk, call on 01603 627010, or WhatsApp Dave or Chris directly on 07554 687137. You can read more about who we are and how we work on our Why Martin's page. We are at 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY, open six days a week.

Contact: info@martinshifi.co.uk | 01603 627010 | WhatsApp: 07554 687137 | 85–91 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EY