Dual-Mono Topology, Toroidal Transformers, Tube Rectification, and a Built-In MM Phonostage Pile on the Value in PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube Preamplifier: Hear Music with the Texture and Warmth You Crave

Whether you’ve never experienced the magic of tubes or are a longtime adopter of the approach, you’re going to be amazed by what you encounter with the PrimaLuna EVO 100 tube preamplifier. Offering a level of build quality, performance, and flexibility that takes on all comers in its price class, this high-value design counts dual toroidal transformers, tube rectification, and an analog volume control among its impressive advantages. A built-in MM phonostage, four pairs of RCA inputs, two pairs of RCA outputs, a stereo tape out, and a mobile-friendly 30.8-pound weight give you versatility.

Equipped with two 12AX7, two 12AU7, and two 5AR4 tubes, EVO 100 features dual mono topology — meaning it has two of practically everything that matters since it houses two discrete preamplifiers in one chassis. Combined with its rectified status, EVO 100 delivers music with a kind of three-dimensional imaging, low-noise presentation, and natural texture that optimally showcases the timeless work of the world’s finest artists and producers. SmartGain and PerfectMatch — the former involving gain set to just 10.8dB for exceptionally silent operation, the latter a circuit that presents an ideal 100K ohm impedance to your source components for seamless coherency — further give EVO 100 sonic-based advantages. 

Inside EVO 100, two toroidal transformers are enclosed in a metal housing and potted in a non-microphonic resin to future reduce noise and protect the windings from deterioration. This solution far out-performs C- and EI-core types in outboard power supply boxes. Point-to-point wiring throughout the entire signal path and ultra-quiet sealed relay inputs further check the audiophile boxes. 

An ALPS blue velvet potentiometer, slim remote control, and three-year manufacturer warranty round out a 7.5 x 11 x 15.9-inch (HWD) component that invites you to experience the warmth, musicality, and fullness of tube sound for a cost that makes the high-end extremely within reach. 

“It's beautiful in its look, it's beautiful in its feel, and its build quality is just stunning for this kind of money. Every detail of the design is thoughtful, even the remote. I think the PrimaLuna EVO100 hit the trifecta for value, build, and sound quality.”
—Steve Gutenberg, The Audiophiliac