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The Convergent Audio Technology SL-1 Signature Mk3 is a legendary tube preamplifier that has been in continuous production since 1985, with ongoing improvements in circuit board materials, capacitors, and internal wiring. It features a tube complement of six JJ E88CC (6922) tubes and four Tung-Sol 12AX7 tubes, delivering a rich, detailed, and remarkably musical sound. The Mk3 model upgraded the line stage tubes from 12AU7 to 6922 types, significantly reducing noise levels from -92dB to -112dB (unweighted) without changing gain, rise time, bandwidth, or slew rate. The preamplifier includes a world-class phono stage with 47dB gain, using five tubes (two input 6922s, two gain 12AX7s, and one output 6922). It offers multiple inputs (two line-level, one phono, tape) and outputs (two main plus tape), with frequency response of 0.1Hz–800kHz (+0/–3dB line) and 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB phono). Harmonic distortion is extremely low (<0.0005% line, <0.001% phono), and it has excellent signal-to-noise ratios and channel separation. The chassis is robust and heavy, with dimensions approximately 490mm W x 135mm H x 310mm D and weight around 29.1 kg. The SL-1 Signature Mk3 is considered by many audiophiles as one of the best preamplifiers in the world, with a It includes a separate power supply and is known for its meticulous design and sonic excellence.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
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The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The Symmetrical's signal-to-noise is 95 dB against the SL1 Mk3's 98 dB, its thd 0.030% against 0.001%, its output impedance 70Ω against 100Ω, and its output voltage 1.0V RMS against 50.0V RMS.
The Polaris III's signal-to-noise is 96 dB against the SL1 Mk3's 98 dB, its thd 0.010% against 0.001%, its output voltage 40.0V RMS against 50.0V RMS, and its output impedance 30Ω against 100Ω.
The MC275 VI's signal-to-noise is 105 dB against the SL1 Mk3's 98 dB, its thd 0.500% against 0.001%, and its output impedance 0.4Ω against 100Ω. Both share class (Tube).
The V 70 SE's signal-to-noise is 100 dB against the SL1 Mk3's 98 dB, its thd 0.100% against 0.001%, and its output impedance 240Ω against 100Ω. Both share input impedance (50Ω).
Conrad Johnson GAT
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