audio research Reference Phono 3SE Phono Preamplifier Owner’s Manual

: June 4, 2024
: audio research

Table of Contents

audio research Reference Phono 3SE Phono Preamplifier
SPECIFICATIONS
References
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audio research Reference Phono 3SE Phono Preamplifier

For those seeking a world-class phono preamplifier, we suggest the Reference Phono 3SE, which offers as much performance as we can pack into a single chassis. Six high current 6H30 tubes in the gain stage make for wider dynamic swings and a greater ease in reproducing musical nuance. Numerous custom components, including proprietary capacitors designed in-house, allow the Reference Phono 3SE to create a playback experience similar to hearing master tapes. Musical realism and palpability are striking.

The Reference Phono 3SE is flexible and easy to use; gain is selectable, with 45dB or 67dB via single-ended outputs, or 51dB and 73dB via the balanced output, allowing compatibility with most cartridges. Loading “on the fly” adds to the ease of use. This flexibility is available for two sets of inputs, along with equalization settings for RIAA, Decca and Columbia LPs, assuring compatibility with your record collection. Rich harmonic texture, soundstage spaciousness, and fine resolution of detail are hallmarks that emerge from a velvety black background.

After over 50 years, our focus remains the advancement of state-of-the-art in music reproduction. Every component is meticulously handcrafted and personally auditioned before it leaves our factory. Our attention to detail, customer service, and product support create unprecedented value.

SPECIFICATIONS

Frequency Response: ±.2 dB of RIAA, 10 Hz to 60kHz; 3 dB points below 0.3Hz and above 300 kHz.
Distortion : Less than .002% at 1.0V RMS 1kHz output.
Gain: Selectable 51 dB (Low) and 73 dB (High) at 1kHz BAL; 45 dB (Low) and 67 dB (High) at 1kHz SE. (MC and MM compatible).
Input Impedance: 47k Ohms and 100 pF SE.
Selectable loads: 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50 Ohms, and Custom.
Output Impedance: 400 ohms Balanced, 200 ohms SE. Recommended load: 50k-100k Ohms and 100 pF. (10k Ohms minimum and 2000 pF maximum).
Output Polarity: Non-inverting. Phono
Equalization: (selectable) RIAA, Columbia, and Decca.
Maximum Input: 250 mV RMS at 1kHz (680 mV RMS at 10kHz) – Low Gain. Rated Outputs: 2V RMS (1V RMS SE) into 200K ohms balanced load (maximum balanced output capability is 30V RMS at less than 0.5% THD at 1kHz).
Power Supplies: Electronically regulated low and high voltage supplies. Automatic 2-minute warm-up/brown-out mute. Line regulation is better than .01%.
Noise: 0.28 µV equivalent input noise, IHF weighted. Shorted (Low Gain) input (71 dB below 1mV 1kHz input). 0.082 µV equivalent input noise (High Gain). (62 dB below 0.1 mV 1kHz input).
Tube Complement: Six 6H30P dual triodes, plus one 6550WE and one 6H30P in power supply.
Power Requirements: 100-135VAC 60Hz (200-270VAC 50/60Hz) 130 watts. Standby: 2 watts.
Dimensions: Width 19” (48 cm), Height 7.8” (19.8 cm), Depth 16.5” (41.9 cm). Handles extend 1.6” (4 cm) forward of the front panel.
Weight: 36.5 lbs. (16.6 kg) Net; 53 lbs. (24 kg) Shipping.