Preamplifiers — PrimaLuna EVO 400-3

The EVO 400-3 is a tube preamplifier from PrimaLuna, sitting above the EVO 300-3 in the brand's EVO line with expanded balanced connectivity alongside the same core single-ended inputs and outputs. Built to complement PrimaLuna's EVO-series power amplifiers, the EVO 400-3 targets a system built around at least one balanced source or downstream balanced power amplifier, without sacrificing single-ended flexibility for the rest of a system.

Key specs that matter

Connectivity comprises two balanced XLR inputs plus three single-ended inputs, and one balanced XLR output alongside one single-ended output - a comprehensive mixed-connection arrangement covering both balanced and unbalanced sources and downstream amplification within one chassis. Gain is 9.7dBu, with input sensitivity at 650mV. Input impedance is a substantial 220k ohms on both balanced and single-ended inputs, with output impedance held to a low 256 ohms on both output types, easing compatibility across a wide range of connected equipment. Frequency response extends from 12Hz to 75,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB, a wider window than the single-ended-only EVO 300-3 below it. Signal-to-noise ratio (unweighted) is 93dB, with total harmonic distortion plus noise held under 0.5%. At 405 x 385 x 205mm and 24kg, the EVO 400-3 shares its chassis dimensions with the rest of PrimaLuna's EVO line for a visually coherent system stack.

Sound and use context

Expect the same smooth, musically engaging tube character PrimaLuna's EVO line is known for, with the added balanced signal path specifically benefiting longer cable runs or systems built around balanced source components, where the common-mode noise rejection balanced connections provide can meaningfully lower the noise floor compared with single-ended-only alternatives.

Pairing

The mixed balanced-and-single-ended connectivity lets a buyer run both a balanced source (such as certain DACs or turntable phono stages) and conventional single-ended equipment from the same preamplifier without compromise, and the wide 220k ohm input impedance eases gain-staging regardless of source type.

Alternatives

PrimaLuna's own EVO 300-3 sits below this model as a more affordable, single-ended-only alternative sharing the same core tube circuitry and tonal character, worth considering instead if a specific system has no genuine need for balanced XLR connectivity.