Parasound - John Curl Series HALO JC3+ - Phono Preamplifier

The Halo JC3+ phono preamplifier is the pinnacle of phono preamplification, offering exceptional performance and versatility. With its discrete Class A input stage, it ensures the highest level of audio quality for your vinyl records. The dual-mono design enhances channel separation and accuracy. The balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs provide flexibility in connecting turntables. The precision RIAA equalization ensures accurate playback of vinyl recordings. The phono preamplifier supports both MM and MC cartridges, catering to a wide range of vinyl enthusiasts. Experience phono preamplification at its best with the Halo JC 3+.

• Phono preamplifier
• Discrete Class A input stage
• Dual-mono design
• Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs
• Precision RIAA equalisation
• MM/MC cartridge compatibility

How the JC 3+ improves on the original JC 3:

• Variable MC load adjust independent for each channel from 50-550 ohms with dual gang potentiometers specially made for Parasound by Vishay.
• Curl-Thompson tweaked circuits to further reduce the JC 3 silent background noise.
• 24k gold plated copper traces on phono module boards for utmost conductivity and most transparency/detail in the music.
• 47% larger low ESR power supply filter caps greater reserve for head-snapping dynamics.
• Ability to turn off illumination of the front panel P logo.

Features

• Designed by John Curl - creator of the legendary Vendetta Research phono preamp
• Inputs and outputs use Vampire brand 24k gold-plated RCA jacks
• Balanced outputs use Neutrik brand premium XLR jacks
• MM 47k ohm, MC 47k ohm or MC variable 50-550 Ohms
• RIAA accurate within 0.2 dB
• Exclusively Vishay-Dale resistors in the audio path
• Triple shielding; low-carbon mild steel partitions isolate the power supplies & AC wires
• Dual mono design; each audio channel is separately enclosed in its own extruded aluminium enclosure
• Separate high speed-soft recovery rectifiers, filter caps and voltage regulators for each channel
• Mono switch can improve sound of mono and older LPs
• Built-in AC line conditioner to prevent AC noise from polluting the circuits
• AC polarity reverse switch can reduce hum in many systems
• Non-magnetic aluminium rear panel for purest sound
• Turn On Options switch: manual or auto with 12v trigger input
• Premium detachable heavy gauge IEC AC cord
• 2u Chassis, rack mountable with HRA2 (sold separately)

Specifications

• Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz, +/- 0.2 dB
• Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.01% at 1 kHz
• Signal to Noise Ratio, MM: > 87 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted; > 78 dB, input shorted, unweighted
• Signal to Noise Ratio, MC: > 87 dB, input shorted, IHF A-weighted; > 67 dB, input shorted, unweighted
• Interchannel Crosstalk: 72 dB at 1 kHz
• Input Impedance :MM: 47k Ω; MC: 50 - 550 Ω variable, 47k Ω fixed
• Output Impedance: Unbalanced: < 100 Ω; Balanced: < 100 Ω per leg
• Input Capacitance: 150 pF
• Input Sensitivity at 1 kHz: MM: 4mV for 1 V output; MC: 600µV for 1 V output
• Total Gain: MM: 48 dB; MC: 64 dB
• XLR Pin Identification: 1 = Ground (Shield); 2 = Positive; 3 = Negative (Return)
• AC Power Requirement: Standby: 1 watt; Power On: 12 watts; 115 or 230 VAC 50 - 60 Hz (Selected on Chassis Bottom)
• Dimensions: Width: 17-1/4" (437mm); Depth: 13-3/4" (350mm); Height, with feet: 4-1/8" (105mm); Height, without feet: 3-1/2" (89mm)
• Weight: Net: 19 lbs. (8.6 Kg)
• Rack Mount Accessory: HRA 2 (may be purchased separately)