EMM Labs PREi – Ultimate Analogue Stereo Preamplifier

Renowned Canadian high-end audio manufacturer EMM Labs has introduced the EMM Labs PREi preamplifier, equipped exclusively with analogue inputs and outputs. The new model becomes the company’s latest flagship and is positioned as the most advanced preamplifier in the brand’s history.

At EMM Labs, the preamplifier is regarded as a key component in any audio system, one that largely defines the character and overall sound quality. The new EMM Labs PREi integrates seamlessly into the brand’s reference mono-brand audio system, complementing components such as the TXi-loop CD transport, the DV2i digital-to-analogue converter, the DS-EQ1 V2 phono stage for DS Audio optical cartridges, as well as the current generation of MTRX2 V2 mono power amplifiers and the MTRS stereo power amplifier. As a result, the EMM Labs PREi becomes the new central control hub within a product line designed to support both high-end digital and analogue playback under a unified brand philosophy.

The EMM Labs PREi preamplifier is built around a dual-mono architecture and constructed entirely from discrete components. The amplification stages operate in pure Class A. The company emphasises that no integrated operational amplifiers are used anywhere in the signal path. At the core of the design lies the proprietary Meitner Audio Architecture (MAA), with all analogue stages developed and manufactured in-house, without the use of third-party modules.

Volume control is handled by EMM Labs’ latest MVControl system – a software-controlled yet fully analogue solution designed to preserve resolution and maintain precise channel balance across the entire volume range. Input switching is implemented using a contactless method, minimising noise and potential reliability issues during long-term operation.

Power for the EMM Labs PREi is supplied by the third-generation MXPower power supply. This resonant-mode design isolates the audio stages from mains-borne interference while maintaining fast transient response. EMM Labs also employs its patented MCeraTek ceramic printed circuit boards, which, according to the manufacturer, offer greater stability and lower dielectric absorption than conventional fiberglass PCBs. This approach, the company notes, reflects its serious commitment to preserving the integrity of low-level audio signals.

The connection complement of the EMM Labs PREi includes six analogue stereo inputs – three balanced XLR and three single-ended RCA. There are also three outputs: two balanced and one single-ended. Input impedance is specified at 40 kΩ for balanced inputs and 20 kΩ for single-ended inputs, while output impedance is 150 Ω (balanced) and 75 Ω (single-ended), ensuring compatibility with a wide range of power amplifiers. For the EMM Labs PREi, the manufacturer specifies a signal-to-noise ratio exceeding 118 dB at 4 V RMS output, total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) of less than 0.01% across the entire audible frequency range, and a gain factor of +6 dB.

The EMM Labs PREi is housed in an aluminium chassis. The front panel features a large touch-sensitive OLED display, allowing users to rename inputs and set three independent volume presets for each input. Integration into smart-home control systems is supported via an RS-232 port. An aluminium infrared remote control is included.

The EMM Labs PREi preamplifier is manufactured in Canada and is available in a silver finish with a black front-panel insert or in a fully black aluminium enclosure. Special-order versions with metallised electroplated finishes are also available.

The recommended retail price is $25,000.