Trigon VANGUARD II

Trigon VANGUARD II – MM/MC phono preamplifier with external power supply

Exceptional adjustability at an accessible price point

The Trigon VANGUARD II is the entry point of the Trigon phono range and offers an exceptionally wide range of adjustment for both MM and MC cartridges. The external power supply can optionally be replaced by the battery-powered Trigon VOLCANO III, consequently making the VANGUARD II both flexible in use and upgradeable without replacing the unit itself. Furthermore, the compact dimensions of just 133 x 55 x 182 mm allow it to sit neatly beside any turntable. The VANGUARD II is available at Novus Audio in Kampen in black or silver.

Wide adjustability for MM and MC

The VANGUARD II offers a gain range of 42 to 66 dB in 16 steps — consequently it suits both high-output MM cartridges and low-output MC systems. Input impedance is adjustable from 25 to 1,800 ohms in 31 steps, plus 47 kΩ for MM systems. Input capacitance is furthermore switchable between 47, 100, and 147 pF. Thanks to this combination, the VANGUARD II adapts to virtually any cartridge available — from entry-level models to serious MC elements such as those from Skyanalog. All switches are externally accessible, therefore making adjustments straightforward and precise.

External power supply and optional VOLCANO III upgrade

The VANGUARD II is supplied as standard with an external transformer power supply, consequently it is ready to use immediately without additional investment. For listeners who want the benefits of battery power — complete mains isolation and an even lower noise floor — the optional Trigon VOLCANO III is directly compatible. This therefore provides a unique upgrade path: start with the standard supply and add the VOLCANO III later, without replacing the unit itself. RIAA equalisation is accurate to within ±0.2 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz throughout.

Compact format and build quality

At just 133 x 55 x 182 mm, the VANGUARD II integrates easily into any equipment rack or turntable setup. Total harmonic distortion is 0.06%, and the signal-to-noise ratio is –72 dB at 60 dB gain and –94 dB at 36 dB gain. Furthermore, the VANGUARD II is supplied with a 3-year guarantee and is available in black or silver — making it a low-risk, high-value entry into serious phono amplification.

Specifications

• Type: MM/MC phono preamplifier with external power supply
• Gain: 42–66 dB (16 steps)
• Input impedance: 25–1,800 ohms (31 steps) + 47 kΩ
• Input capacitance: basic 60–100 pF; switchable 47 / 100 / 147 pF
• Input: 1 x RCA
• Output: 1 x RCA
• RIAA equalisation: ±0.2 dB (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
• THD: 0.06%
• SNR: –72 dB at 60 dB gain; –94 dB at 36 dB gain
• Power supply: external transformer (VOLCANO III optional)
• Dimensions (WxHxD): 133 x 55 x 182 mm
• Finish: black or silver
• Guarantee: 3 years
• Manufacturer: Trigon (Germany)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Trigon VANGUARD II and the VANGUARD III?

The key distinction is the interface — the VANGUARD III features a touchscreen display for all parameters, while the VANGUARD II uses conventional external switches. The VANGUARD III is also marginally deeper at 190 mm versus 182 mm. Gain range and impedance options are identical, consequently the VANGUARD II is the most accessible entry point into the Trigon phono range.

Can the Trigon VANGUARD II be upgraded with a battery supply?

Yes — the optional Trigon VOLCANO III battery power supply is directly compatible with the VANGUARD II. This upgrade provides complete mains isolation and a lower noise floor without replacing the unit itself. Contact Novus Audio for further information on this upgrade path.

Is the Trigon VANGUARD II suitable for low-output MC cartridges?

Yes — with a maximum gain of 66 dB and adjustable input impedance from 25 to 1,800 ohms, the VANGUARD II handles most MC cartridges comfortably. For very low-output systems below 0.2 mV, the ADVANCE III with its 72 dB maximum gain is the stronger choice. Our specialists are happy to advise on the best option for your cartridge.