The new Atoll PR300 EVOLUTION preamplifier replaces the Signature range. Even if it keeps the same plastic, it receives numerous modifications and improvements and is equipped with XLR input and output.
Atoll PR300 EVO : façade
It logically takes up the magnificent 8mm thick aluminum facade of the Atoll IN300 EVO integrated amplifier, as well as the 1.5mm thick metal chassis. The rigidity of the assembly limits all mechanical vibrations.
The top of the device is perforated for better heat dissipation, although the PR300 EVO does not get as hot as an amplifier.
The controls on the front panel have been very refined and all the functions are grouped together on 2 large “logic” and “rotary” buttons. These sit on each side of the OLED display bringing together source and volume information. They allow you to start the device, choose the source, manage the volume and adjust the balance.
All these settings are also accessible via the supplied remote control.
Still on the front panel, we find a 6.35 mm jack headphone output which cuts off the Main preamp outputs.
Atoll PR300 EVO: rear panel
The back of the device offers 5 analog inputs, 1 Tape output and 1 By-pass Aa input, in addition to a pair of balanced XLR input and output.
In addition to the XLR outputs, there is a double pair of preamp outputs in RCA format.
The By-pass input allows it to be connected to a processor or a Home Cinema amplifier
Atoll PR300 EVO: characteristics
Note that the Atoll PR300 EVO (unlike the PR300 Signature) features an integral dual mono and fully symmetrical structure. It is equipped with two independent symmetrical stages for each channel and a stereo attenuator per channel (with switched resistors).
The audio stages are equipped with shielded MKP Mundorf capacitors. They also improve the signal/noise ratio, but above all the musicality. All stages are double mono and are powered via 2 toroidal transformers with a total of 30VA.
The manufacturer only uses discrete components.
The Atoll PR300 EVO has a total capacitance of 89,000 microfarads, which is a benchmark for a preamplifier of this range!
A specific low-consumption power supply (5VA) has been dedicated to managing the OLED display and logic circuits.
Atoll PR300 EVO: testing and listening
This Atoll PR300 EVO preamplifier is a worthy representative of the brand's products and it marks a huge difference with the old PR300 Signature model!
We find the dynamics and transparency dear to the manufacturer. Added to these are remarkable neutrality and great transparency.
The medium is very precise and very realistic. The voices show no harshness and benefit from a very appreciable organic side.
It is of course a perfect companion to the Atoll AM300 power amplifier, but its neutrality allows it to join many electronics from competing manufacturers.
This Atoll PR300 EVO is a remarkable preamplifier. It also allows the addition of an Atoll P100 phono card or the excellent Atoll DA 200 digital card.
Recommended!
FranckPower supply: 2×10 VA (audio) + 10 VA + 3.2 VA
Total capacitance: 89,000 µF
RCA analog inputs: 5
Analog XLR inputs: 1
Analog RCA outputs: 1
Analog XLR outputs: 1
BY-PASS input: 1
Tape output: 1
Input impedance: 357 kOhms
Sensitivity: 3 V
Signal-to-noise ratio : 100 dB
Distortion at 1 kHz: 0.005
Bandwidth: 5Hz - 100kHz
Rise time: 1.5 µs
Dimensions: 440 x 95 x 365 mm
Weight: 6.8kg
