PrimaLuna EVO 400 Tube Preamplifier Black / No Phonostage Reviews

5 Rating 28 Reviews

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Phone:

909.931.9686

Email:

joel.m@upscaleaudio.com

Location:

2058 Wright Avenue,
2058 Wright Avenue
California
91750

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“Ok, I’m a WANNABE audiophile, and not the best with technology, but still trying to get better sound at 64 years old. As soon as I plugged this thing,(EVO 400 preamp) into my system, and started playing some music, I knew something special was going on here. Out of the box with no break-in, it was a little harsh and bright, BUT I STILL KNEW! It’s now a month and a half later, and it sounds SO GOOD! When friends and family come over, I have them sit in the sweet-spot in front of my system, and start playing an Elton John SACD, and everyone does the same thing-they look above my system at the blue curtains behind it and kinda smiling, looking like “how’s someone singing up there, but there’s no speaker up there!” My OPPO 105d, modified by Modwright electronics now sounds better than my VPI Scout jr TT. The rest of my system is Cambridge Audio 851w, (probably next to be changed out), and Furman Elite 15 power conditioner, PSB T3 speakers, AQ Gibraltar speaker cables, Kimber Kable Silverstreak, and Cardas Clear interconnects. I’m on a tight budget, and this might not be a High-End, Balls to the walls, best system out there, but since I added this Primaluna, EVO 400 preamp to it, it sure as hell is to me! I’m very happy with it. The only thing that could make it better is if it lasts a long time with no major problems.”

6 Helpful Report

Posted 3 years ago

“Bought this unit from UA Nov 2020. 5ar4 rectifier tubes failed in 30 days. Not encouraging. UA replaced the 5ar4's and the fuse. Burn in 4 the next 15 days. Used 5 - 8 hours a day for 6mo. This a beautifully sounding preamp in my system. ( ss amp, w / streamer as a source). After 6 months getting used to the sound, I upgraded the 5ar4 rectifiers to Phillips, and the 12au7 (2) input tubes to RadioTechnique. This is the best I've heard my system. Soundstage width & depth & height, instrument placement + air around them. Vocals are awesome. I've never heard such sound out of my speakers. If you're vaguely interested, you must try the UA 60 day trial period in your system. Mine did not go back, and I still do not regret it .”

2 Helpful Report

Posted 3 years ago

Nathan Luetke

Verified Reviewer

Author didn't leave any comments.

Helpful Report

Posted 3 years ago

“I was hoping to upgrade from my CJ ET3 or my CJ Classic SE in two different listening areas. My first impression was WOW! More of everything HT Width Depth openness Transparency bass etc. However there was a slightly irritating edginess to female voice on some cuts. Took about 200 hours for it to smooth out & settle down. Now its the best pre amp i have. I have only had tube pre amps in my systems since the late 60's.”

3 Helpful Report

Posted 3 years ago

“The 400 Evo preamp is the best bang for the buck.Herman and his crew at prima Luna are honest and give you what you pay for. Unlike most corporate Audio companies of these days. I sold my 16 lbs rip off preamp for the Beautiful 39 lbs work of art Evo 400 Preamp. And just last week I sold my Theta mono amps for a 68 lbs Evo 400 power amp.”

3 Helpful Report

Posted 4 years ago

“Well built solid great sounding preamp especially paired with EVO 400 amp.”

Helpful Report

Posted 4 years ago

“Amazing soundstage. First venture in to tubes and no regrets. Upgraded to Philips 5R4GYS and another step up. Worried I've taken the first step in to an expensive tube rolling habit.”