Series VT
VT Series — Phono
The VT series represents Cary Audio's valve phono stage for vinyl playback.
The history of the series
A recent and refined proposal for vinyl, compatible with both MM and MC cartridges.
The VT-500 is the brand's valve phono stage, supporting both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges with selectable loading.
- 2017–2019 VT-500, valve phono stage (release year to be specified).
Chronology compiled from official Cary Audio sources and specialised press, reviewed on 19 June 2026.
For whom
Audience and Purpose
For systems where vinyl is the primary source and passive RIAA equalisation is required with support for both MM and MC, in a dual chassis with an external power supply.
Cary Audio maintains dedicated phono stages separate from preamplifiers with integrated phono (SLP-98P). The VT-500 accommodates both MM and MC with selectable loading and passive RIAA equalisation ±0.5 dB.
Selection Guide
How to Choose Within the Series
Opt for the VT-500 over the SLP-98P when a moving coil (MC) or dedicated phono stage is necessary; choose the SLP-05 when only line control is required without an integrated phono stage.
The VT series currently comprises a single model: the VT-500. Cary also positions the SLP-98P (MM phono in preamplifier) and the CAD-300SEI (integrated with headphone capability) along different vinyl pathways.
The VT-500 does not replace a full line preamplifier: its output is directed towards an SLP-05, SLP-98L, or an integrated amplifier with a line input.
Model hierarchy
Series hierarchy
- Dedicated phono stage: VT-500
Evolution Path. VT-500 as a dedicated stage when vinyl is the primary source; integrated MM alternative in SLP-98P.
Series Models
Current Models
VT-500
Cary Audio valve preamplifier with phono stage, thus belonging to both the preamplifier and phono families.
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In the press
What the critics have said
“The VT-500 walks that lovely line between neutral and warm”
Positive Feedback · Robert H. Levi · 2019
“moving coil performance is musical, luxurious, and spacious”
Positive Feedback · Robert H. Levi · 2019
Technology
Series Engineering
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Valves and single-ended triode
Valve design is the foundational heritage of Cary Audio. The brand maintains a line of triode equipment in single-ended configuration, in class A, which defines much of its character and sonic identity.