Aurorasound PREDA-III Preamplifier
The PREDA-III is Aurorasound’s reference pre-amplifier, designed to perform the core tasks of signal selection, volume control, and signal conditioning with absolute precision. Built around a true balanced architecture and fully independent dual-mono structure, it delivers high performance with exceptional clarity and control.
Key features:
• fully balanced pre-amplifier
• complete dual mono (L/R independent) design
• XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced inputs
• XLR balanced and RCA unbalanced outputs
• Aurora AMP-2 Rev.4 amplifier modules
• NEC and Toshiba discrete transistors and FETs
• WIMA film capacitors and TAKMAN resistors
• ALPS precision volume control (50mm machined brass body)
• Neutrik XLR and rhodium plated RCA connectors
• optical encoder input selector with relay switching
• global phase selector (normal/inverse)
• solid aluminium chassis construction
• cast iron foot insulators
• no remote control
Design and performance:
The PREDA-III uses a true balanced signal path throughout, ensuring minimal noise and maximum signal integrity. Both balanced and unbalanced inputs are fully supported and can be routed to either output type without compromise.
The complete dual mono structure means that left and right channels operate entirely independently, including signal paths, amplification stages, and power supplies. This improves channel separation, reduces interference, and enhances stereo imaging.
The newly developed Aurora AMP-2 Rev.4 amplifier module delivers improved speed and lower noise compared to previous designs, contributing to a more precise and controlled sound.
Materials and construction:
• discrete NEC and Toshiba transistors from classic analogue era designs
• WIMA film capacitors for stability and reliability
• TAKMAN metal foil resistors for precision and low noise
• large ALPS volume control with gold-plated multi-wire contact system
• Neutrik XLR connectors and rhodium plated RCA terminals
• relay-based input switching for shortest signal path
The volume control is positioned between input and output buffer stages, ensuring consistent signal conditioning without loss of detail or frequency response at any level.
Sound characteristics:
• highly transparent and neutral presentation
• excellent channel separation and imaging
• low noise with high dynamic resolution
• stable and consistent performance across volume range
• precise and controlled signal delivery
The PREDA-III is designed to preserve the integrity of the source signal, delivering it to the power amplifier without coloration or loss.
Build and usability:
The chassis is constructed from solid aluminium, with a 10mm front panel, 8mm sides, and 5mm top and bottom plates. This rigid structure supports the internal circuitry while reducing vibration.
Input selection is controlled via an optical encoder and relay system, providing noiseless switching and a clean signal path. A global phase selector allows adjustment of signal polarity to match system requirements.
Note:
The PREDA-III pairs naturally with the Aurorasound PADA-300B Monoblock Amplifiers but is equally suited to both tube and solid-state power amplifiers.
