Audio T Verdict
The Audio Note Meishu Phono Tonmeister combines a single-ended 300B power amplifier, line-level source control and a moving-magnet valve phono stage in one substantial chassis.
Its approximately 8-watt-per-channel output makes loudspeaker matching especially important, but the integrated design removes the need for a separate preamplifier and power amplifier.
The standard Phono Tonmeister is the starting point in the current Meishu Tonmeister family. Silver, Silver Signature and Konzertmeister versions are separate models with different component specifications.
Audio Note Meishu Phono Tonmeister 300B Integrated Valve Amplifier
The Audio Note Meishu Phono Tonmeister is a pure Class A, single-ended integrated valve amplifier using one directly heated 300B triode output valve for each channel.
It delivers approximately 8 watts per channel into suitable 4O or 8O loudspeaker loads and includes a built-in moving-magnet valve phono stage.
The Tonmeister design replaced the original Meishu with a substantially simplified circuit, revised power supply, transformer-coupled driver stage and output transformers designed specifically for the amplifier.
This Is the Standard Meishu Phono Tonmeister
This listing is for the standard Phono Tonmeister with a built-in moving-magnet phono stage.
It should not be confused with the Meishu Line Tonmeister, which does not include the phono stage, or the separate Silver, Silver Signature and Konzertmeister versions.
The original pre-Tonmeister Meishu has been discontinued and used a different circuit and valve complement.
An Integrated Amplifier
The Meishu combines source selection, listening-level control, phono amplification and loudspeaker power amplification within one chassis.
Unlike a separate preamplifier, it can drive a compatible pair of passive loudspeakers directly without an additional power amplifier.
Its low output power means that loudspeaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size and required listening level must all be considered before purchase.
What the Meishu Includes
- Line-level source selection
- Integrated volume control
- Moving-magnet valve phono stage
- Single-ended 300B power amplifier
- 4O and 8O loudspeaker connections
- Valve-rectified power supply
What It Does Not Include
- Built-in DAC or digital inputs
- Network streaming or Bluetooth
- Direct low-output moving-coil input
- High-power operation for insensitive speakers
- Automatic loudspeaker impedance selection
- Built-in room correction
Single-Ended 300B Output Stage
One 300B directly heated triode valve is used for each channel in a single-ended output stage.
The output valves operate in pure Class A, meaning they remain active throughout the complete audio waveform rather than switching between separate halves of the signal.
The circuit uses zero negative feedback and avoids the phase-splitting stage required by a conventional push-pull amplifier.
Approximately 8 Watts Per Channel
Audio Note specifies a maximum output of approximately 8 watts per channel into 4O or 8O loads.
This is not intended to provide the high output figures associated with large transistor amplifiers. The available power must instead be considered as part of a carefully matched amplifier, loudspeaker and room combination.
Eight watts can provide suitable listening levels with an efficient, amplifier-friendly loudspeaker, but it may be insufficient for an insensitive design, a difficult impedance load or very high playback levels.
Loudspeaker Matching Is Essential
Sensitivity alone does not determine compatibility. The loudspeaker's impedance curve, phase behaviour, room position and listening distance also affect how successfully it will work with an 8-watt single-ended amplifier.
A demonstration with the intended loudspeakers is strongly recommended wherever possible.
Choosing the Correct Speaker Output
The Meishu is designed to drive suitable loudspeakers through its 4O or 8O transformer output connections.
Use the output recommended for the loudspeaker's nominal impedance as the initial setting. Where the loudspeaker manufacturer permits either connection, both may be assessed at sensible volume under dealer guidance.
Always switch the amplifier off before moving loudspeaker cables between output terminals.
Never Operate Without Loudspeakers Connected
A valve amplifier with transformer-coupled outputs should not be operated without a suitable loudspeaker load connected.
Check both loudspeaker cables carefully before switching on and make certain that positive and negative conductors cannot touch one another.
Never change loudspeaker connections while the amplifier is operating.
The Tonmeister Circuit
Audio Note redesigned the Meishu around a simpler circuit in which each amplification stage is closely matched to the stages before and after it.
The input and driver arrangement is related to that used in Audio Note's larger Jinro, Tomei and Ongaku amplifiers.
An ECC82, also known as a 12AU7, works with a 5687 driver valve and a custom interstage transformer before the signal reaches the 300B output valves.
Transformer-Coupled Driver Stage
The 5687 driver stage feeds an interstage transformer designed and manufactured by Audio Note.
This transformer transfers the signal and drive energy to the 300B output stage without using a conventional capacitor-coupled arrangement at that point in the circuit.
Audio Note identifies this transformer-coupled driver stage as one of the principal changes introduced by the Tonmeister redesign.
Custom Output Transformers
The Tonmeister's output transformers were developed specifically for the revised Meishu circuit.
They are designed and manufactured in-house by Audio Note rather than selected from a generic transformer range.
The exact transformer material and winding specification varies across the standard, Silver, Silver Signature and Konzertmeister versions, so specifications from those models should not be applied automatically to this standard amplifier.
Simplified Valve-Rectified Power Supply
The Tonmeister power supply uses one mains transformer, one 5U4G rectifier valve and one choke.
This simplified arrangement replaced the more complicated power supply used in the original Meishu.
Audio Note optimised the transformer, rectifier and choke as a complete system rather than adding further supply stages or rectifier valves.
Built-In Moving-Magnet Valve Phono Stage
The Phono Tonmeister includes an internal moving-magnet phono stage using one ECC83 and one 6DJ8/ECC88 valve.
This section provides the gain and RIAA equalisation required to connect a compatible moving-magnet cartridge.
Audio Note's current general specification does not separately publish the phono-input sensitivity or input capacitance. These should be confirmed when matching a cartridge with unusual electrical requirements.
Using a Moving-Magnet Cartridge
A compatible moving-magnet cartridge can connect directly to the Meishu Phono Tonmeister's phono input.
The
Audio Note IQ III moving-magnet cartridge
is designed for a conventional 47kO moving-magnet input and provides one possible partner within an Audio Note vinyl system.
Cartridge output, recommended capacitance, tonearm wiring and interconnect capacitance should all be considered when completing the system.
Using a Moving-Coil Cartridge
The internal phono stage is not a direct active moving-coil input.
A low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a compatible step-up transformer between the tonearm cable and the Meishu's moving-magnet phono input.
The
Audio Note IO I moving-coil cartridge
can be used with a correctly matched Audio Note step-up transformer.
The
Audio Note AN-S5/L
is intended for very low-impedance cartridges, but the transformer version must be selected according to the cartridge's internal impedance.
Do Not Connect a Low-Output MC Cartridge Directly
A typical low-output moving-coil cartridge will not produce sufficient signal when connected directly to a moving-magnet phono input.
Confirm the cartridge, transformer and phono-stage combination before ordering.
Seven-Valve Complement
The standard Meishu Phono Tonmeister uses seven valves in total.
- 1 x 5U4G: power-supply rectifier
- 2 x 300B: one output valve per channel
- 1 x 5687: output-stage driver
- 1 x ECC82 or 12AU7: input and driver circuit
- 1 x ECC83: phono model only
- 1 x 6DJ8/ECC88: phono model only
The valve complement differs from both the discontinued original Meishu and the current Meishu Konzertmeister. Replacement valves should be selected according to the exact Tonmeister model.
Custom Audio Note Components
Audio Note manufactures many of the transformers and passive components used within the Tonmeister rather than relying entirely on off-the-shelf parts.
The design uses custom resistors, in-house manufactured foil capacitors and custom electrolytic capacitors selected to work with the revised circuit.
More elaborate component specifications are used in the separately available Silver, Silver Signature and Konzertmeister versions.
Connecting Analogue Sources
CD players, DACs, streamers, tuners and other products with analogue line-level outputs can connect to the Meishu's line inputs.
Audio Note publishes a 100kO line input impedance and an input sensitivity of 240mV for full output.
The exact number and labelling of current-production inputs should be confirmed from the rear panel or when ordering.
Connecting Digital Sources
The Meishu does not contain a DAC, network streamer, USB input, Bluetooth receiver or digital audio input.
A digital transport requires an external DAC, while a network player must provide either its own analogue output or connect through a separate DAC.
The
Audio Note DAC 2.1x Signature
provides one possible route for connecting suitable digital sources to a Meishu line input.
Standard, Silver and Silver Signature Versions
Audio Note currently lists the Meishu Phono Tonmeister in standard, Silver and Silver Signature versions.
These are separately built models rather than user-selectable operating modes or simple cosmetic options.
The upgraded versions use different selections of wiring, transformers, resistors and capacitors. The exact current specification and price difference should be confirmed before ordering.
Meishu Tonmeister and Konzertmeister
The Meishu Phono Konzertmeister is a separate Level 4 model developed from the Tonmeister platform.
It uses a different input, driver and phono-stage valve arrangement, a higher component specification and a published weight of 35kg.
This standard Phono Tonmeister should therefore not be described as a Konzertmeister or assigned the Konzertmeister's component and technical specifications.
Matching Audio Note Loudspeakers
Audio Note's efficient loudspeaker designs provide natural candidates for demonstration with the Meishu.
The
Audio Note AN-E SPE HE
is a high-efficiency model designed to work with relatively low amplifier power.
The
Audio Note AN-J SPE Hemp
provides another possible system option, although compatibility should be assessed in the intended room and at the required listening level.
Room Size and Listening Distance
The usable output of an 8-watt amplifier depends heavily on loudspeaker sensitivity and listening distance.
A system that provides ample level in a smaller room at a moderate distance may have less available headroom in a large open space.
Customers who regularly listen at high volume or use recordings with wide dynamic peaks should discuss the required headroom during the demonstration.
Installation and Equipment Support
The Meishu weighs 29.5kg and requires a strong, stable equipment support capable of safely carrying its weight.
Its 530mm chassis depth must be considered alongside the additional space needed for mains, source and loudspeaker cables.
Measure the complete shelf depth before ordering rather than relying solely on the amplifier's external dimensions.
Valve Ventilation
The 300B output valves and power supply produce significant heat during operation.
Leave generous open space above and around the amplifier. Do not install it in a sealed cupboard or place another component directly on top.
Keep the amplifier away from curtains, soft furnishings and any surface that could obstruct ventilation.
Power-Up and Shutdown
Make all source, loudspeaker and mains connections before switching the amplifier on.
Confirm that both loudspeakers are correctly connected, select the required source and reduce the volume before applying power.
Allow the amplifier to complete its normal warm-up before critical listening. Switch it off when it will not be used rather than leaving the valves operating permanently.
Replacing the 300B Valves
Switch the amplifier off, disconnect it from the mains and allow the valves and chassis to cool completely before touching or replacing a valve.
Replacement 300B valves should be suitable for the amplifier and supplied as an appropriately matched pair.
If there is uncertainty about valve condition, type or fitting, contact Audio T rather than substituting an unverified alternative.
Anodised Aluminium or Black Acrylic Fascia
The current fascia options are anodised aluminium and black acrylic.
The Audio T options identify these as aluminium and black versions. The fascia choice is cosmetic and does not change the standard Phono Tonmeister circuit.
Current build availability and lead times should be confirmed when ordering.
Key Features
- Integrated 300B valve amplifier
- Built-in moving-magnet valve phono stage
- Pure Class A operation
- Single-ended output stage
- Zero negative feedback
- One directly heated 300B triode per channel
- Approximately 8 watts per channel
- Designed for suitable 4O or 8O loudspeaker loads
- ECC82 and 5687 input and driver circuit
- Custom Audio Note interstage transformer
- Custom Audio Note output transformers
- Simplified valve-rectified power supply
- One 5U4G rectifier valve
- ECC83 and 6DJ8/ECC88 phono-stage valves
- Custom Audio Note resistors
- In-house manufactured foil capacitors
- Custom electrolytic capacitors
- 100kO line input impedance
- 240mV line sensitivity for full output
- Anodised aluminium or black acrylic fascia
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Meishu Phono Tonmeister an integrated amplifier?
Yes. It combines source control, a moving-magnet phono stage and a stereo power amplifier in one chassis.
How much power does it produce?
Audio Note specifies approximately 8 watts per channel into suitable 4O or 8O loudspeaker loads.
Does it use one 300B valve per channel?
Yes. Its single-ended output stage uses one directly heated 300B triode for each channel.
Will it drive any loudspeaker?
No. Its 8-watt output requires careful matching with a sufficiently efficient and amplifier-friendly loudspeaker.
Does it have a built-in phono stage?
Yes. The Phono Tonmeister includes a moving-magnet valve phono stage using one ECC83 and one 6DJ8/ECC88.
Can I connect a moving-magnet cartridge directly?
Yes, provided the cartridge is electrically compatible with the Meishu's moving-magnet phono input.
Can I connect a low-output moving-coil cartridge directly?
No. A typical low-output moving-coil cartridge requires a correctly matched step-up transformer before connection to the moving-magnet input.
Does it have digital inputs or streaming?
No. A digital source requires its own analogue output or a separate DAC.
Is this the original Meishu?
No. This is the redesigned Tonmeister. Audio Note has discontinued the original Meishu, which used a different circuit and valve complement.
Is this the Silver or Silver Signature model?
No. This listing is for the standard Meishu Phono Tonmeister. Silver and Silver Signature versions are separate models.
Is this the Meishu Konzertmeister?
No. The Konzertmeister is a separate Level 4 model with a different component and valve specification.
How many valves does the standard Phono Tonmeister use?
It uses seven valves: one 5U4G, two 300B, one 5687, one ECC82, one ECC83 and one 6DJ8/ECC88.
Can the amplifier be operated without loudspeakers?
No. A suitable loudspeaker load should be correctly connected before the amplifier is switched on.
Should it be left switched on permanently?
No. Allow it to warm up before critical listening, but switch it off when it will not be used to avoid unnecessary heat, power consumption and valve wear.
What fascia finishes are available?
The current choices are anodised aluminium and black acrylic, subject to production availability.
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Experienced Audio Note valve-amplifier specialists
- Low-power amplifier and loudspeaker matching
- Moving-magnet cartridge compatibility checks
- Moving-coil step-up transformer advice
- 4O and 8O loudspeaker connection guidance
- Digital-source and DAC matching
- Valve replacement and ownership advice
- Equipment-support and ventilation planning
- In-store demonstrations through participating branches
- Ongoing system setup and servicing support
Contact your local Audio T store
to arrange a demonstration and confirm that the Meishu is correctly matched to your loudspeakers, room and vinyl source.
Audio Note's current general specification does not publish the exact number of line inputs, phono-input sensitivity, phono-input capacitance or full rear-panel connection layout.
Specifications may change as Audio Note continues product development. Current connections, supplied valves and accessories should be confirmed when ordering.