Introducing the New Aavik R-X88 Phono stages

NEWS
hi-fi+ Staff
Dec 05, 2025

5 December 2025: Aavik is proud to announce the launch of the R-x88 phono stage series — R-188, R-288, and R-588 — precision-engineered to deliver unprecedented analog performance for both Moving Coil (MC) and DS Audio optical cartridges. Drawing inspiration from the flagship Aavik R-880, this new lineup brings reference-level phono innovation and musical expression to a wider audience.

“Our R-880 flagship redefined phono performance. With the R-x88 series, we’ve brought the same level of musicality and design to a wider audience.”
— Michael Børresen, Chief Designer

Pure Musicality Meets Advanced Engineering

At Aavik, everything begins with music. The R-x88 models are developed to preserve every nuance of the original recording through an authentic, noise-free signal path. Each unit combines cutting-edge analog technology with the clean, elegant Danish design the brand is known for.

Hand-assembled in Aalborg, Denmark, every phono stage benefits from Aavik’s in-house expertise alongside carefully selected Danish and international partners to ensure uncompromising quality.

Key Technologies

Noise Rejection
Integrated Ansuz Active and Square Tesla Coils with Analog Dither Circuits deliver exceptional signal purity and reduce electromagnetic interference.

Versatility
Compatible with both MC and optical cartridges, including precise gain and loading adjustments.

Resonant-Mode Power Supply
Sine-wave DC/DC converters ensure ultra-low noise and minimal distortion for superior sonic performance.

Discrete Low-Noise RIAA Section
Parallel ultra-low-noise bipolar transistors deliver a 94 dB S/N ratio at 1 kHz.

Topologically Balanced MC Input
Floating design eliminates grounding noise issues.

Advanced Circuit Design (R-588)
Independent voltage rails and discrete operational amplifiers produce remarkable resolution, dynamics, and transparency.

Hybrid Cabinet Construction
A visually striking combination of wood, copper, and steel — engineered for resonance control and stability.

Model Specifications

Feature	R-188	R-288	R-588
MC Input	Floating RCA	Floating RCA	Floating RCA
MC Gain	58dB / 64dB	58dB / 64dB	58dB / 64dB
Noise Reduction (Active Tesla Coils)	36	72	108
Noise Reduction (Square Tesla Coils)	72	144	216
Dither Circuits	3	6	9
Optical Input	RCA — Gain: 26dB	Same	Same
Output	RCA, <0.05% THD, 70 Ω	Same	Same
Dimensions	440 × 430 × 116 mm	Same	Same
Weight	21 kg	21 kg	21 kg
Power (On)	<15W	<15W	<40W
Enclosure Class	IP10	IP10	IP10