
$3695
PrimaLuna’s first standalone phonostage accepts both mm and low-output mc cartridges. Rather than use the conventional mc solution of either a step-up transformer or a solid-state stage for generating an additional 20dB or so of gain, PrimaLuna opted for a 6922 dual triode gain stage connected as a grounded grid circuit. Combined with the 40dB of gain generated by the mm stage, the total gain is 60dB—more than enough to satisfy any mc. It’s an absolutely fabulous tube extravaganza. Not only are both gain stages tube based, but add tube rectification and tube regulation via a pair of EL34 pentodes, and you have a unique circuit solution. The EVO 100 uses active inverse RIAA EQ based on feedback loops, emulating such classics as the Marantz 7 and Audio Research SP3a. System integration is super-easy via front-panel selectable mc input-impedance settings. For those of us addicted to tube sound, the EVO 100 is a godsend. It serves up a luscious midrange without losing sight of resolution, as well as the image focus and 3D soundstaging, that are tubes’ traditional strengths. This superlative phonostage elevates the vinyl playback experience to new heights. It has magnified DO’s enjoyment level to the point where he just can’t stop spinning vinyl. Truly a sonic masterpiece! (345)
Tags: AWARD PHONOSTAGE ANALOG GOLDEN EAR

By Dick Olsher
Although educated as a nuclear engineer at the University of Florida, I spent most of my career, 30 years to be exact, employed as a radiation physicist at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, from which I retired in 2008.
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