The PP500 phono preamplifier, built around the JRC4580 op-amp, originally uses 3.3 kΩ resistors and 4.7 µF capacitors in the feedback network. While this design is stable, it can result in a lower output level when used with medium-output MM cartridges such as the Audio-Technica AT3600L, and the stock power section is highly susceptible to interference.
To optimize both the gain and power filtration, a comprehensive modification was applied. In the feedback network, after iterative testing with different values (1 kΩ, 2 kΩ, and 2.5 kΩ), a 4.7 kΩ resistor in parallel was selected as the perfect sweet spot—balancing high clarity with the necessary volume output. This was combined with an upgraded 10 µF capacitor to optimize the low-frequency response and ensure proper RIAA correction.
Significant improvements were also made to the power supply stage to eliminate noise. The stock 1000 µF filtering capacitor was replaced with a much larger 2200 µF unit, byp