Posts with tag "Preamplifier"

With the launch of the Audio Research LS-3, the American company is addressing audiophiles who want a no-compromise line-level preamplifier without vacuum tubes, yet with a truly high-end level of performance. The new model continues the philosophy of the brand’s classic preamplifiers, but places its emphasis on a modern fully balanced solid-state platform designed for precision, transparency, and dynamic freedom of sound.

American company Audio Research has introduced the Audio Research LS-2 preamplifier. Its fully tube-based design, operating in pure Class A, eliminates semiconductors from the signal path and is aimed at maximum sonic authenticity. At the same time, the classic circuit concept is complemented by modern features such as a touchscreen display and optional modular expansion.

The Italian audio manufacturer Unison Research has introduced a new amplifier set from the Unico V2 series, consisting of the Unico Pre V2 preamplifier and the Unico DM V2 power amplifier. Both components are built on a hybrid design and implemented in a “dual mono” concept.

The Japanese brand Esoteric has introduced a new XE series of electronic components, including the Esoteric N-05XE network player, preamplifier and DAC, and the Esoteric S-05XE stereo power amplifier operating in pure Class A. The new products will go on sale in March 2026.

Italian high-end audio manufacturer Riviera Audio Laboratories has presented a new generation of its flagship preamplifier and monoblock power amplifier models. The APL01SE preamplifier and AFM100SE monoblocks in Special Edition form are currently Riviera Audio’s top-tier models.

Our ranking of Ultra High-End audio equipment continues – next up is a look at the most expensive and impressive preamplifiers. The models below are mass-produced; the list does not include long-discontinued units or one-off components. And believe us, each of these preamps is capable of surprising even seasoned audiophiles with their sound quality.

Audiophile brand Roksan has expanded its Caspian Series 4G line by introducing the Roksan Caspian Streaming preamplifier with network streaming functionality and the Roksan Caspian stereo power amplifier. The new models complement the two Caspian 4G integrated amplifiers released in 2024.

Nagra has released a new preamplifier, the Nagra PREAMP II-S, based on a vacuum tube stage. This model features the Nagra Modulometer, similar the iconic Nagra IV-S reel-to-reel tape recorder. It allows visual control of left and right channel levels, while emphasizing Nagra's signature style.

Japanese brand Accuphase has introduced the Accuphase C-3900S preamplifier, further advancing the company’s proprietary AAVA technology in an even more refined form. Alongside uncompromising balanced circuitry, the main focus is on practical integration into complex High End systems. A wide range of connectors and extensive adjustment options underline the unit’s role as a central control hub for demanding stereo setups.

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.

British audio company Rega Research introduced the Mercury preamplifier and Solis power amplifier at Munich's High End show - back in 2024. Now, at last, these newcomers are available.

Our new editorial ranking will help you navigate the preamplifier landscape. The most impressive models of 2025 are compiled in ascending order of price, so Hi-Fi and high-end enthusiasts will be sure to find a device to suit their tastes.

Cayin has released the new Cayin Soul 170C vacuum tube preamplifier, the perfect complement to the recently announced Soul 170P stereo vacuum tube power amplifier.

Choosing a preamplifier and its precise pairing with the rest of the path and, above all, the power amplifier is not an easy task. Especially when new models of components are constantly entering the market. Our editorial rating was compiled specifically to facilitate the choice and includes seven ultra-modern preamplifiers for every taste and budget.

The German Physiks Emperor Preamplifier is a reference preamplifier equipped with three balanced and three RCA inputs. The model is based on a fully balanced circuit and guarantees the widest bandwidth from 0.5 to 95,000 Hz with a minimum noise level of 0.001%.

PS Audio has started selling the previously announced precision preamplifier PS Audio PMG Signature Preamplifier – the frequency response of the model is within 5 – 500000 Hz (-3dB), the noise floor does not exceed -145 dB, THD+N is declared less than 0.0003%, IMD is 0.0005%, and Crosstalk is -135 dB!

Master Fidelity has unveiled the Master Fidelity Nadac L preamplifier, which features a dedicated volume control chip developed in collaboration with a semiconductor manufacturer using a JFET-like CMOS ASIC architecture.

The Ranieri Audio Labs Varieta preamplifier has been released – the model uses directly heated triodes and allows for a wide range of tubes (300B, 2A3/6A3, 12A/201A, 26, 30, 31, 45, 50, 71A, 801A/10Y, 275A/252A, 245 and 842/VT52 will do). Simply ideal for those wishing to experiment with tube rolling.

PS Audio has released a line of new components - The Paul McGowan Signature Series, which includes a preamp, DAC, disk transport and phonostage. All components feature innovative circuitry and offer impressive performance.

The full premiere of the Ypsilon Electronics PST 100 Anniversary Edition preamplifier will take place at Audio Show Deluxe on March 22-23, 2025, Whittlebury Park Melbourne room, at which time the full technical specifications of the device will be available. But the curtain of secrecy has already been lifted - so, the new preamplifier, released for the 30th anniversary of the company, is a further development of the SE model.