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
Gentlemen,
I am very happy with this phono preamp !
It is in every respect and with the great possibility of regulations an important piece of vinyl sound.
Thank you to you and to Wayne Colburn.
Sincerely
Fabio Fascinari
Got all the parts in order - worked like a charm from first power-up - now just waiting for boxes !
Super phono preamp
One of the best sounding MC phono stages Ive ever owned/built and betters many retail products that Ive auditioned over the past 2 years (to Aug 2024) up to 5k before I built this. I tried:- Rega Aura, Dynavector, Musical Fidelity, Cambridge Audio to mane just 4 out of the 10....this superb device beat the lot and by some considerable margin.
There is a super step by step build guide which makes it easy...
Thanks must go to Wayne C and the DIY audio store team one and all.