Parasound
JC3+ Phono Amp
Best high fidelity component for discerning audiophiles.
Experience vinyl like never before with this exceptional phono preamplifier. Engineered by John Curl, its dual-mono, all-analog design delivers unparalleled clarity and musicality, bringing your favorite albums to life. It seamlessly accommodates both Moving Magnet and Moving Coil cartridges, offering adjustable loading for MC types. With premium components and meticulous construction, it ensures an incredibly low noise floor and precise RIAA equalization. Connect effortlessly to your high-end audio system using its balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA outputs for a pure, immersive listening experience.
$3250.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
165
/ 895
#165 in Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
-53%
Below average
Frequency Response
20200.2
/ Hz - kHz, +/- dB
Who it's for
- Dedicated audiophiles seeking the highest fidelity from their analog setup
- Experienced vinyl collectors with various cartridges or plans for future upgrades
- Discerning listeners prioritizing top-tier design and long-term audio component investment
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious music lovers or casual vinyl enthusiasts
- Users desiring an all-in-one audio solution beyond just vinyl playback
- New vinyl enthusiasts or those preferring a simple, plug-and-play experience
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
John Curl's circuit design reveals breathtaking detail in every vinyl groove.
Cartridge Versatility
Seamlessly handles diverse MM and MC setups with precise loading adjustments.
Noise Floor
Ultra-quiet operation ensures your music emerges from a pitch-black background.
Build Integrity
Robust aluminum chassis construction reflects true high-end audio craftsmanship.
Signal Connectivity
Balanced XLR outputs provide superior noise rejection for demanding audio systems.
RIAA Precision
Exceptional equalization accuracy delivers a faithful, balanced, and natural soundstage.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
20 Hz - 20 kHz, +/- 0.2 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion
< 0.01%
Signal to Noise Ratio, MM
> 87 dB (IHF A-weighted)
Signal to Noise Ratio, MC
> 87 dB (IHF A-weighted)
Interchannel Crosstalk
72 dB at 1 kHz
Input Impedance
MM: 47k Ω; MC: 50 - 550 Ω variable
Output Impedance
< 100 Ω
Input Capacitance
150 pF
Know before you buy
Yes, the JC3+ is fully compatible with both MM and MC cartridges. It features dedicated settings to accommodate the different gain and impedance requirements of each type.
Adjustable MC loading allows you to fine-tune the electrical impedance to match your specific cartridge's requirements. This ensures the flattest frequency response and prevents high-frequency roll-off or harshness, resulting in a more accurate and balanced sound.
Yes, the JC3+ is equipped with both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs. Using the balanced XLR outputs can help reduce noise and interference, especially if you have a longer cable run to your amplifier.
Yes, the unit features a dual-mono, all-analog architecture. By avoiding digital processing, it maintains the purity of the analog signal path from your turntable to your amplifier.
The JC3+ is engineered for exceptional RIAA accuracy, maintaining a frequency response within +/- 0.2 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This precision ensures that your records are played back exactly as they were mastered.
With a signal-to-noise ratio greater than 87 dB for both MM and MC, the JC3+ is designed to keep the noise floor extremely low. Its premium components and meticulous construction minimize distortion, allowing you to hear fine details even during quiet passages.
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$3250