Stage 2 upgrade for Cambridge Audio 540P/551P

This maudifi solution is a transformational upgrade for the renowned Azur 540P or 551P moving magnet (MM) phono stages from Cambridge Audio. It takes the sound available from your vinyl source to a whole different level. The sound quality gets close to that of an expensive high-end phono stage, assuming a good turntable, for a fraction of the price. Internal components are replaced with much higher quality ones transforming the soundstage, separation, detail, bass definition and control, etc.

The original unit

The off-the-shelf Cambridge Audio Azur 540P, or 551P phono stages are well respected budget pre-amplifiers for turntables with a moving magnet cartridge.  They are essentially the same thing, except the casework evolved between the two and the 551P has a front panel power switch which the 540P does not.  Otherwise the circuit is identical. It is a good basic phono stage, but it has a thin and very much flat ‘in-the-box’ two-dimensional presentation.  It can sound grainy and harsh in a revealing system.  This reflects its original selling price and position in the market.

The maudified unit

This Stage 2 maudifi upgrade takes the performance capability of a 540P or 551P from budget to high-end to allow it to comfortably perform in the league of £1000+ phono stages.  The graininess and harshness disappear and it becomes smooth and relaxed.  The soundstage grows wider and deeper.  The bottom-end becomes tighter and more extended.  Everything is now clearer and you can hear the separation between instruments and unearth the layers to your music.

How is this possible?

In this case, it is achieved by judicious component selection from a range of higher quality electronic component manufacturers and minor circuit changes.  Measurements are all well and good, but they only form a base line to start from.  To fine tune sound quality to high-end performance, it is essential to conduct extensive listening tests using a range of parts selected by experience.  Sonic excellence is then possible from equipment you would not consider capable of it.

How do I get it?

This upgrade is available as a DIY kit, including extensive step-by-step instructions, available in the maudifi shop (540P S2 kit, 551P S2 kit), or as an upgrade service for UK customers, (540P S2, 551P S2).

What customers say…

” the results were amazing. Once the system was run in for a few weeks I compared it to my Alva Duo and it surpasses it in every way. Each instrument is identifiable and lows, mids and highs are a delight. “

“I run this through my BlueGlow modded Valve amp and I couldn’t be happier. I was especially pleased with the clarity at lower volumes. Scott is really onto something with this mod and is really helpful if you have questions. Highly recommended! “

Simon, Tyne & Wear

“On first listening the wider soundstage and tighter bass was immediately noticeable.
Now after a months listening the overall improvement in quality of sound is outstanding, especially greater separation, wider and deeper soundstage and excellent clarity (in particular vocals) and tighter bass.”

Andrew, Nottinghamshire

” First track I played was “Pearls by Sade” I was struck by how silent the phono stage had become after the upgrade, there was no sound at all until Sade began to sing and the music started. No background noise at all, all of the rubbish was taken out of it.
The depth of the soundstage has drastically improved in clarity and openness. When listening to Miles Davis “Kind of Blue” I always found it a little harsh and not so easy on my ears at times, now it is not as shrill and an absolute pleasure to listen to. I cannot recommend this upgrade enough if you have a Cambridge Audio phono stage and want to turn in into something very special. Even the ” folks ” at Cambridge Audio have applauded Scott’s upgrade.
Ive got to give Maudifi a five star rating as the whole experience has been nothing short of outstanding.
Many thanks “

Matt, Kent

“The experience feels so much more alive and immersive without sounding fatiguing, or harsh. It’s just a really great mature sounding combination.

Once again I’m really happy with the service, and there was no hard sell, just friendly advice. For the value of what you get from doing these upgrades, it makes total sense. Thank you!”

Matt, Birmingham