Jeff Rowland Capri S2-SC preamplifier
Best high-end preamplifier for audiophiles seeking versatile, refined sound performance.
The Jeff Rowland Capri S2-SC preamplifier offers trademark Rowland musicality and resolution, delivering consistent authority. It features standard input/output interfaces and can be enhanced with optional phono cards for added flexibility. The signature prismatic platinum faceplate is set into a non-resonant chassis milled from solid aluminum. With its low output impedance, the Capri S2-SC confidently drives any amplifier, making it suitable for diverse setups, from vinyl rigs to multiple solid-state Rowland amplifiers.
$5900.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
36
/ 475
#36 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-14%
Below average
Model Number
2
/ Capri S-SC
Who it's for
- Space-conscious owners wanting premium, vibration-resistant industrial design
- Audiophiles seeking uncolored, high-resolution musical reproduction
- Listeners demanding absolute silence and effortless dynamic range
Who should skip it
- Tube enthusiasts craving lush, harmonic coloration in their sound
- Budget-focused buyers prioritizing value over ultra-high-end performance
- Users needing an all-in-one solution with integrated phono or DAC
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Delivers exceptional resolution while maintaining the signature Rowland musical warmth.
Drive Capability
Low output impedance ensures effortless control over any connected power amplifier.
Chassis Construction
Solid aluminum milling provides a virtually vibration-free environment for sensitive circuitry.
System Versatility
Flexible input options and optional phono cards accommodate diverse analog setups.
Signal Integrity
Near-zero harmonic distortion preserves the purity of the original audio source.
Aesthetic Craftsmanship
The prismatic platinum faceplate serves as a stunning centerpiece for systems.
Key Specs
Model Number
Capri S2-SC
Circuit Type
Solid State
Output Impedance (Balanced)
80 Ohms
Output Impedance (Single Ended)
40 Ohms
Number of Channels
2
Build Quality
Non-resonant chassis milled from solid aluminum
Output Connection Types
RCA, XLR Balanced
Power Supply Type
Internal
Features
- Trademark Rowland musicality and resolution
- Enhanced flexibility with optional phono card
- Signature prismatic platinum faceplate
- Non-resonant solid aluminum chassis
- Drives any amplifier with confidence
- Suitable for diverse amplifier pairings
- Low output impedance for robust driving
- Optional phono card support
What customers say
The Jeff Rowland Capri S2-SC preamplifier earns high praise for its exceptional build quality and sonic purity. Users consistently highlight the robust chassis reflecting its premium status. Sonically, the unit is celebrated for remarkable transparency and an ultra-low noise floor, delivering intricate detail and expansive sound staging without listener fatigue. The bass response is described as taut and deeply impactful, providing a solid musical foundation. While extremely neutral, allowing source material to excel, some may note a presentation less warm than traditional tube designs. Overall, the Capri S2-SC is viewed as a reliable, long-term investment for audiophiles prioritizing accuracy, speed, and sonic excellence in a compact form.
Know before you buy
The Capri S2-SC does not include a built-in phono stage as standard. To use it with a turntable, you will need to install the optional phono card or use an external phono preamplifier.
Yes. Thanks to its low output impedance—80 Ohms balanced and 40 Ohms single-ended—the Capri S2-SC is designed to drive a wide variety of power amplifiers with ease and consistency.
The chassis is milled from a solid block of aluminum to create a non-resonant environment. This construction minimizes mechanical vibrations that can interfere with the delicate audio signal, ensuring higher resolution and clarity.
Yes, the Capri S2-SC is equipped with both RCA and XLR balanced outputs, allowing for flexible integration into diverse audio systems.
The unit is engineered for high-fidelity performance with a total harmonic distortion rating of 0.0 percent, ensuring the output remains as faithful to the source material as possible.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$5900