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Icon Audio PS3: The Ultimate Evolution in Tube Phono Stages
Icon Audio PS3: The Ultimate Evolution in Tube Phono Stages
Icon Audio PS3: The Ultimate Evolution in Tube Phono Stages
Icon Audio PS3: The Ultimate Evolution in Tube Phono Stages

ICON AUDIO PS3 MKII MM/MC

Phono preamp with stereo/mono switch.

Compatible with MM and MC capsules

Separate power supply

Pure triode 4 x ECC88 1 x 6SN7 (preamp)

1 x EZ80 1 x ECC83 1 x 5687 (power supply)

Polypropylene capacitors

2 x turntable inputs 1 x MM and 1 x MM/MC

Blue ALPS potentiometer

Colour

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Icon Audio PS3: The Ultimate Evolution in Tube Phono Stages

Building on the acclaimed Icon Audio PS1, which earned "5 Globes" from Hi-Fi World (03/2008) for its exceptional sound quality, we have pushed tube technology even further with the release of the PS3.

Designed without compromises, the PS3 surpasses the limitations of traditional designs, adhering to our "All Valve" philosophy while delivering extraordinary sonic performance.

A No-Compromise Design

For exceptional amplification, a top-tier power supply is essential. The PS3 incorporates:

A large power transformer, ensuring stable power delivery.

EZ80 rectifier tube, followed by two high-capacity chokes, providing an extremely clean and smooth current.

Voltage regulation via a 5687 tube, controlled by an ECC83, guaranteeing precise and stable power, crucial for sonic purity.

The preamplifier employs a "Double Cascode" circuit, achieving high gain with minimal noise. This design significantly enhances sound definition, spatial imaging, and naturalness, while maintaining the warm musicality that made the PS1 so revered.

Additionally, the PS3 includes two inputs, offering a moving coil (MC) option using handmade MC transformers crafted by Icon Audio.

For the output stage, we selected the legendary 6SN7, a tube introduced in 1941, widely regarded as one of the finest-sounding tubes in high-fidelity audio.

Key Features

"Double Cascode" Circuit, combining the fluid, natural sound of triode tubes with optimized gain.

Four ECC88 tubes, chosen for their clarity and exceptional response.

6SN7 output tube, renowned for its warm and natural tone.

All-tube power supply, with:

EZ80 rectification

Voltage regulation via ECC83 and 5687

Dual high-capacity chokes, ensuring interference-free power delivery.

Dual-chassis design, minimizing noise for the purest sound.

Zero-feedback design, preserving absolute fidelity to the original recording.

Hand-wired, point-to-point construction, eliminating circuit boards that could degrade sound quality.

High-end components, with upgradeable capacitor options, such as Jensen.

Unparalleled Sonic Purity, Dynamics, and Naturalness

Eliminates harshness in the highs, a common issue in many designs.

Smooth, musical, and naturally warm sound.

Outstanding detail and definition.

Ultra-low background noise, ensuring precise sound reproduction.

Significantly improves playback of worn or aged records, reducing harshness.

Mono switch, removing unnecessary noise when playing mono recordings, for a more authentic experience.

Moving Magnet (MM) vs. Moving Coil (MC): Which Is the Best Choice?

Moving Magnet (MM) cartridges are more affordable, offer higher output (~5mV), and allow stylus replacement.

Moving Coil (MC) cartridges have a lower output (~0.5mV), cannot replace the stylus, and are generally more expensive.

However, MC cartridges provide a more natural sound, as record cutting machines use MC technology.

One challenge with MC cartridges is their low output, requiring ten times more gain than an MM cartridge. Instead of using transistor-based circuits, which compromise sound quality, Icon Audio has developed a superior solution:

A custom British-made toroidal transformer, featuring Mu-metal shielding, delivering clean, detailed, and interference-free sound.

This transformer can be factory-installed or added later for an additional £200.00.

Additionally, a front-panel switch allows selection between two turntables, supporting multiple configurations.

Technical Specifications

Power and Gain

Built-in volume control, capable of driving most power amplifiers directly.

Maximum output: 50V, offering exceptional dynamic range.

Two phono inputs:

1x MM

1x switchable MC/MM

Signal-to-noise ratio:

MM: -88 dB (unweighted).

Stereo/Mono switch, reducing noise and distortion on older or worn records.

All-Tube Power Supply

EZ80 rectifier tube

Voltage regulation via ECC83 and 5687

Twin Choke design, ensuring ultra-smooth current supply

Independent power supply unit, minimizing interference and noise

Build Quality

Hand-wired, point-to-point construction (no PCBs)

ALPS Blue volume potentiometer (Japan) for high-precision control

Tube Configuration

4 x ECC88 (preamplification)

1 x 6SN7 (output stage)

1 x EZ80, 1 x ECC83, 1 x 5687 (power supply regulation)

Input & Output

Input Sensitivity:

3mV for 1.26V output (0.3mV MC)

Gain Levels:

MM: 53 dB

MC: 72 dB

Input Load:

MM: 47kΩ

MC: 100Ω

Output Impedance: 50Ω

RIAA Equalization

RIAA Frequency Response:

20 Hz - 20 kHz (+0/-0.5 dB)

Passive RIAA filtering, with zero negative feedback

Premium Components

2W metal film resistors (low noise and oversized for durability)

High-quality polypropylene capacitors

Silver-plated PTFE-insulated audio cables

DC heater supply, floating to minimize cathode noise

Robust & Elegant Design

Polished stainless steel chassis

6mm solid alloy front and rear panels

Connectivity

Gold-plated input and output terminals

Power Supply & Energy Consumption

Voltage: 230/240V (120V available)

Power Consumption: 50W, 1.5A fuse

Dimensions & Weight

Each unit measures:

Width: 148 mm

Height: 165 mm

Depth: 342 mm (including connectors)

Minimal ventilation required

Weight:

Power supply: 7 kg

Preamplifier: 4 kg

Total shipping weight: 14 kg (packaging: 45x48x29 cm)

A No-Compromise Phono Stage for Audiophiles

The Icon Audio PS3 is the ultimate choice for audiophiles seeking unparalleled fidelity in vinyl playback. Its highly optimized "Double Cascode" circuit, all-tube power supply, and handcrafted construction make it one of the finest phono stages available today.

If you are looking for a smooth, dynamic, and natural listening experience, the PS3 is simply unmatched in its class.

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