Manley Labs Manley Neo-Classic 300B Preamplifier RC Black
Lauded as the first and only preamp to feature classic 300B tubes, the Neo-Classic series 300B RC preamplifier is Manley’s self-proclaimed ‘most esoteric’ product to-date.
Features
- 2x 6SL7 Sovtek input tubes
- 2x 300B Electro-Harmonix output tubes
- 2x 5AR4 Ruby rectifier tubes
- 2x OD3 regulator tubes
- 5x stereo inputs (unbalanced RCA)
- 2x stereo outs (unbalanced RCA)
- Dedicated record and headphone outs
- Switchable Mute function
- Headphone impedance switch (30-400 / 300-4k Ohms)
While Manley’s historical use of the 300B tube has been most prominent in small power amp models, their specific voltage swing and power level makes them a terrific match for headphone amplification purposes. This, combined with their smooth and natural sound made them Manley’s obvious choice for a next generation line-driving preamp.
Running in tandem with the two output tubes are large octal 6SL7GT triode tubes, all operating in pure Class-A mode. The implementation of tube rectification and regulation for the Neo-Classic 300B’s high-headroom power supply perfectly complements the retro feel of its circuit siblings.
Intelligent Ripple Rejection
Developed from scratch by Manley Magnetics, Neo-Classic 300B’s ripple rejection circuit is a new component designed to intelligently filter out power supply noise. The result during operation is a stunningly clean preamplifier performance which gels particularly well with the requirements of discerning headphone listeners.
Volume can be adjusted with a true audiophile ALPS potentiometer which perfectly matches the rich quality of the Neo-Classic 300B’s line driver, while under the hood high purity silver wire, extra thick copper and plated PCBs, custom Manley Magnetics designed output transformer modules and gold-plated RCA connectors all combine to deliver the cleanest audio path possible.
Specifications
- Gain: Factory set at 12 dB at max Volume
- Noise Floor: -70 dB (1 Hz - 100 KHz)
- S/N Ratio: 105 dB (A weighted, 20 Hz - 20 KHz)
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz to 50 KHz @ 1dB
- THD: 0.08 % @ 1KHz at 1V RMS out
- THD+N: -80 dB (0.01%)
- Input Sensitivity: 250mV (-9.8dBu) yields 1V out
- Input Impedance: 100 kOhm Noble volume control
- Max Input: 5.5dBu or 1.459 Vrms @ 1KHz
- Output Impedance: 100 Ohms (Line)
- Max Output: 17.2dBu or 5.636 Vrms @ 1KHz
- Dimensions: 483 x 330mm (WxL), 12.7kg