PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier

PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier – dual mono topology with valve-rectified power supply

A pure valve preamplifier as the ideal front end

The PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier is designed as the ideal front end for a PrimaLuna power amplifier — or for any power amplifier that benefits from the musical openness and tonal richness of valve amplification. Since the dual mono topology uses two separate toroidal transformers, left and right channels are completely independent. As a result, channel separation is maximised and interaction between channels is eliminated. Two 12AX7, two 12AU7 and two 5AR4 valves provide the characteristic PrimaLuna sound.

Valve rectification and dual mono construction

The 5AR4 rectifier valves provide a gentler start-up behaviour than solid-state rectifiers — consequently reducing thermal stress on the output valves at switch-on. Furthermore, each power supply has its own dedicated toroidal transformer, fully encapsulated for minimum hum and maximum isolation. DuRoch polypropylene capacitors and an ALPS Blue Velvet volume control complete the premium build. Since point-to-point wiring connects all components with heavy-gauge cable, no thin PCB copper traces are used anywhere in the signal path.

Four inputs and practical connectivity

The EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier offers four stereo RCA inputs, one RCA tape output and two stereo RCA outputs. Since two separate output pairs are provided, it consequently connects to two power amplifiers simultaneously — useful in a bi-amping configuration. Furthermore, the Slim remote allows volume and source selection from the listening seat. The optional PhonoLogue EVO phono module fits into the shielded compartment on the base, thereby eliminating the need for an external phono stage.

The natural partner for PrimaLuna power amplifiers

Above all, the EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier is the logical front end for the PrimaLuna EVO 100 and EVO 200 Tube Power Amplifiers. Since each component has its own separate power supply, signal purity is thereby maximised and inter-component interference is eliminated. Those who need Home Theater Bypass, Swiss Made wiring or XLR connectivity can consequently step up to the EVO 200, 300 or 400 preamplifiers.

Specifications

• Type: valve preamplifier, dual mono topology, valve-rectified
• Valves: 2× 12AX7, 2× 12AU7, 2× 5AR4
• Gain: 10.8 dB
• Output: 2 V / channel
• Output impedance: 2800 ohm
• Inputs: 4× stereo RCA
• Outputs: 1× RCA tape, 2× stereo RCA
• DuRoch polypropylene capacitors: yes
• Point-to-point wiring: yes
• ALPS Blue Velvet volume control: yes
• Dual toroidal transformers: yes
• Phono: optional PhonoLogue EVO
• Remote control: Slim remote
• THD: <0.2% @ 2V
• SNR: 93 dB (100 dB A-weighted)
• Frequency response: 15 Hz–80 kHz, ±3 dB
• Dimensions: 405×280×190 mm
• Weight: 14 kg

Frequently asked questions about the PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier

How does the EVO 100 compare to the EVO 200, 300 and 400 preamplifiers?

All fundamental PrimaLuna quality features are present — dual mono topology, valve-rectified power supply, point-to-point wiring and ALPS volume control. Higher models add progressively more: the EVO 200 adds Home Theater Bypass and DuRoch tinfoil capacitors. Furthermore, the EVO 300 adds Swiss Made wiring, Takman resistors and AC Offset Killer, while the EVO 400 moreover includes XLR inputs and outputs and a full metal remote.

Is the EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier compatible with any power amplifier?

Yes — since output impedance is 2800 ohm and two stereo RCA output pairs are provided, the EVO 100 consequently works with virtually any power amplifier. The power amplifier's input impedance should ideally be 10 kΩ or above for optimal results.

Can the PrimaLuna EVO 100 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.