Condition: Grade A — Excellent
This unit presents very well, with minimal signs of use consistent with careful ownership. Please refer to our photographs for a full assessment of cosmetic condition.
The P173 is a notably well-specified preamplifier for its period. Its input complement covers phono (both moving magnet and moving coil), three line-level inputs (tape, tuner, CD), and two tape loop connections — a thorough provision that accommodates a full source system. Two pairs of outputs allow simultaneous connection to multiple power amplifiers or recording devices. Tone controls are fitted and can be switched out of circuit, which was a deliberately useful design choice: the P173 was created specifically for those who wanted the option of bass and treble adjustment when recording quality or room acoustics demanded it, without being forced to accept the controls in the signal path when they were not needed.
The separation of the power supply into a dedicated external unit is a meaningful design decision rather than a marketing convenience. By physically removing the mains transformer and associated regulation circuitry from the signal chassis, the designers reduced the opportunity for transformer-induced magnetic fields and power supply noise to contaminate the sensitive low-level phono and line circuitry. The main unit dimensions are notably generous for a preamplifier, reflecting the quality of internal construction and shielding rather than any particular complexity of the external form.
The P173 was designed and manufactured in England during Musical Fidelity’s most creatively significant period, when the company was producing electronics that routinely competed with more expensive rivals.
Technical Specifications (Source: Musical Fidelity P173 manufacturer’s brochure, archived via literature.puertoricosupplier.com. The P173 does not appear in HiFi Engine or HiFi Database. The following figures are as published in that brochure and should be treated as the manufacturer’s stated values; no independent verification has been possible.)
- Type: Stereo Preamplifier with separate external power supply
- Phono Input Sensitivity (MM): 2.7 mV
- Phono Input Sensitivity (MC): 260 µV
- Line Input Sensitivity: 150 mV (Tape, Tuner, CD)
- Inputs: Phono MM/MC, Tape ×2, Tuner, CD
- Outputs: Two pairs
- Tone Controls: Bass and treble, switchable out of circuit
- Dimensions — Main Unit (W×D×H): 485 × 340 × 90 mm
- Dimensions — Power Supply (W×D×H): 185 × 190 × 70 mm
- Weight: 9 kg (combined)
- Country of Origin: England, UK
Why Buy From Us
With over 40 years of experience in the Hi-Fi industry, we are well placed to assess and test equipment of this type. Every item we list is fully inspected and tested before sale — this unit was checked by Callum in our workshop.
When you buy from us you can expect:
- Full inspection and testing prior to listing — not simply a visual check
- A 3-month guarantee on every item we sell
- Transparent descriptions with no omissions
- Professional packaging to ensure safe delivery
- After-sales support available by phone or email should you have any questions
The Musical Fidelity P173 is a well-built, full-function British preamplifier from a period of genuine innovation in domestic hi-fi design. Its separate power supply, switchable tone controls, and comprehensive input provision make it a practical and capable choice for anyone running a system built around a separate power amplifier, particularly those with a vinyl front end requiring moving coil capability. Please note that at the time of publishing we also have the matching P270-2 power amplifier available — please see our other listings. This is a single-unit listing, inclusive of the external power supply. Please feel free to get in touch with any questions.
