Phase Linear P3800, Impressive Preamp Performance

The Phase Linear P3800 is a solid-state stereo preamplifier produced in the early 1980s under International Jensen ownership. Although not from the great Bob Carver era, the P3800 stands out for its exceptionally clean design and ultra-low distortion, boasting a total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 0.003% and an intermodulation distortion of just 0.002%.

Engineered with an expansive high-level frequency response stretching from 10 Hz to 100 kHz, the P3800 serves as an uncompromising, wide-bandwidth command center for vintage audio stacks. Its front layout breaks away from standard tone controls by integrating a three band parametric EQ equipped with variable frequency and bandwidth sliders. This allows listeners to pinpoint and correct room acoustic anomalies or recording deficiencies with surgical precision.

The P3800 features a highly sophisticated and versatile phono stage that supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges. An unusual feature for many preamps of the time, the P3800 allows the listener to accommodate various turntable cartridges with a high level of adjustability and accuracy for vinyl playback.

Operating at a rated output voltage of 2.0 volts RMS with a maximum capability of up to 10 volts, the unit easily drives demanding vintage power amplifiers. To round things out, this preamp also comes with multi-position tape monitor capabilities, variable loudness controls, and a stepped audio-muting function.

This unit has been service by our in-house tech staff and is ready for audio wizardry. Besides some scrapes on the aluminum front baffle, the unit is in very presentable condition and it sounds brilliant!

$449 (plus applicable MA sales tax and/or shipping)