PrimaLuna EVO 300 Tube Preamplifier

PrimaLuna EVO 300 Tube Preamplifier – Swiss Made wiring, AC Offset Killer and full metal remote

The step up to premium components in the preamplifier range

The PrimaLuna EVO 300 Tube Preamplifier introduces Swiss Made wiring, Takman resistors and the AC Offset Killer to the EvoLution preamplifier range for the first time. Furthermore, output impedance drops from 2800 ohms to just 256 ohms — consequently making the EVO 300 compatible with virtually any power amplifier and cable length. Six 12AU7 valves and two 5AR4 rectifier valves in a dual mono circuit deliver the characteristic PrimaLuna musicality at the highest level within the preamplifier range. Above all, a full metal remote replaces the Slim remote of the lower models, thereby elevating the ownership experience considerably.

Low output impedance and Swiss Made wiring

An output impedance of 256 ohms is a standout specification — since this low value allows the EVO 300 to drive long cable runs and virtually any power amplifier without signal degradation. As a result, it is particularly suited to larger systems where source and amplifier may be positioned some distance apart. Swiss Made wiring, Takman resistors and DuRoch tinfoil capacitors moreover combine to produce a signal path of exceptional purity. Consequently, the EVO 300 represents a meaningful step up from the EVO 200 in both component quality and system flexibility.

AC Offset Killer and five inputs

Since the AC Offset Killer eliminates mains interference at the power supply stage, the noise floor is thereby significantly lower than in the EVO 100 and 200. Five stereo RCA inputs plus Home Theater Bypass furthermore provide more connection options than any other EVO preamplifier model. Two stereo RCA outputs and a tape output allow flexible system integration. The optional PhonoLogue EVO phono module moreover fits into the shielded compartment on the base, consequently eliminating the need for an external phono stage.

Alan Sircom on the EVO 300 in hi-fi+

Reviewer Alan Sircom wrote in hi-fi+ UK that he was excessively diverted by the EVO 300 — a rare compliment that captures its musical character precisely. Since its launch, the EVO 300 Tube Preamplifier has consequently established itself as a reference in its class. Those who additionally require XLR inputs and outputs will find the EVO 400 the logical next step.

Specifications

• Type: valve preamplifier, dual mono topology, valve-rectified
• Valves: 6× 12AU7, 2× 5AR4
• Gain: 9.7 dB
• Output: 2 V / channel
• Output impedance: 256 ohm
• Inputs: 5× stereo RCA + 1× Home Theater Bypass
• Outputs: 1× RCA tape, 2× stereo RCA
• Swiss Made wiring: yes
• Takman resistors: yes
• DuRoch tinfoil capacitors: yes
• DuRoch polypropylene capacitors: yes
• AC Offset Killer: yes
• Home Theater Bypass: yes
• Point-to-point wiring: yes
• ALPS Blue Velvet volume control: yes
• Dual toroidal transformers: yes
• Phono: optional PhonoLogue EVO
• Remote control: Full remote (metal)
• THD: <0.5% @ 2V
• SNR: 93 dB (100 dB A-weighted)
• Frequency response: 12 Hz–75 kHz, ±3 dB
• Dimensions: 405×385×205 mm
• Weight: 24 kg

Frequently asked questions about the PrimaLuna EVO 300 Tube Preamplifier

What does the EVO 300 add over the EVO 200 preamplifier?

Swiss Made wiring, Takman resistors, AC Offset Killer, an additional RCA input and a full metal remote are the key additions. Furthermore, output impedance drops from 2800 ohms to 256 ohms — consequently making the EVO 300 compatible with a much wider range of power amplifiers and cable lengths.

How does the EVO 300 differ from the EVO 400 preamplifier?

The EVO 400 is the only model in the range with XLR inputs and outputs for balanced connections. Since both models share Swiss Made wiring, Takman resistors and AC Offset Killer, the EVO 300 is consequently the ideal choice for those who want premium components without the need for XLR connectivity.

Can the PrimaLuna EVO 300 Tube Preamplifier be used with a turntable?

Yes — the optional PhonoLogue EVO phono module fits into the shielded compartment on the base, thereby eliminating the need for an external phono stage. Since the module is suitable for MM cartridges, a turntable consequently connects directly without additional components.