Pearl 3 Phono Preamplifier
- Description
This is the pioneer kit for Wayne Colburn’s new phono stage, Pearl 3.
This includes all of the parts for the RIAA PCBs, as well as a bare power supply PCB. It does not include the chassis nor the chassis accoutrements.
Like all previous pioneer kits this may have slight issues or oversights that early versions may have. Pioneer kits are intended for more experienced builders, or for eager and easygoing builders of all skill levels who are willing to seek forum assistance to resolve any problems themselves.
Board dimensions:
- Phono board: 5 1/2" x 3 1/2" (140mm x 90 mm)
- Power board: 4" x 4" (100mm x 100mm)
More information
Notes
- The BOM specifies 4 heatsinks. Kits ship with two pairs already joined together.
Customer Reviews
After ACA, F6, and Elekit TU8500, I had concerns before starting this project due to SMDs, however, it went pretty well after watching suggested videos. I decided not to order anything more besides the kit so I used my power drill batteries for the power supply and hardwired a RCA cable which was sitting around. I had to replace R27-220R with 610R to decrease the bias. It's dead quiet with detailed highs and balanced mid and lows. Thanks to everyone who made it happen!
I am a great fan of Wayne preamp and phono stage. I build a pearl I some years ago, then a Pearl II more recently and today it is the Pearl III.
Once again thank you Wayne for this wonderful piece of audio instrument.
No complication and really easy to build. If any doubt, the build guide is there to give you the correct answer.
It is not yet in its box but I was really so excited to listen the result that I connect the "Pearl III project" on my listening system before finishing the cosmetic work. And there, I was not disappointed. First of all, just after powering up I increase the volume and it was so quiet that I thought something was wrong. Incredibly quiet phono-stage.
Musically very clear and vivid. Lot of punch and very soft and emotional when necessary... it is a great phono stage !
Even like that without box, it is a pleasure to listen LP with this Pearl III.
I have now to build a decent box which will be smaller than the one of Pearl II.
I made also some measurement for people who like these kind of information.
If you need a phono stage, don't hesitate it's a bargain. Bruno
I'm gonna try this a third time. Hope I get it right. I haven't finished the kit yet. I'm awaiting some Toshiba transistors I bought on eBay. There's no way I can solder the surface mount components. My 73 year old hands and eyes aren't capable! Otherwise the kit is great. I can't wait to Finnish it and give it a listen.
Pending completion but all the parts are there sans chassis which can sourced at DIYAudio. Since my kids have expressed an interest in vinyl I feel obligated to build a quality phono amp such as this one and at a reasonable cost. Extensive build info is on the Pearl 3 discussion thread. RThatcher's power supply kit (group buy) ensures the power input is well regulated. My only wish is for the power supply board to be available on DIYAudio as a separate item, we need more power supply options!
Happy building!
Rogster
Just completed wiring and performing initial tests. As to the build, the directions and guides are the most complete I have ever experienced. On line assistance, as well, has been comprehensive. It is too early to comment on the sound quality, but I'll know in a couple of weeks.
I have not finished. the assembly yet so I cannot comment on the sound, but I have the Pearl 1 and that sounds very nice.
The Pearl 3 PCBs are professional and very well designed. All parts of very good quality and the instructions are clear and very-well made.
I was afraid of soldering the surface mount components, but after watching some supporting videos I was more confident and everything went fine. I can highly recommend this kit to anyone.