868L vs 868
The 868 matches the 868L on signal-to-noise (90 dB), output voltage (5.0V RMS), output impedance (600Ω), and weight (10 kg (22 lbs)).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
868L
EARAmplifiersPre-AmplifiersTube Amplifiers
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$4,003 - $6,318
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the 868L
The EAR 868L is a fully balanced, transformer-coupled tube line preamplifier designed by Tim de Paravicini. It uses two PCC88 (7DJ8) valves and offers five RCA line inputs, one balanced XLR input, and outputs including two RCA line outputs, two balanced XLR outputs, and a tape monitor output. The preamp features a built-in power supply to reduce clutter and hum, with hand-wound output and power transformers tailored for optimal sound quality. It delivers a signal-to-noise ratio of 90dB on the line stage and a gain of 17dB. The chassis measures 380 mm (width) x 100 mm (height) x 305 mm (depth) and weighs 10 kg. The 868L is designed for line-level sources only, without a phono stage (which is included in the 868PL variant). It supports 240V, 110V, or 100V power depending on the model and consumes a maximum of 24 watts. The unit is praised for its dynamic, spacious, and transparent sound, suitable for demanding audiophiles and professional studio use.
Specifications
Power Specifications
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- SNR
- 90 dB
- Output Voltage
- 5.0V RMS
- Output Impedance
- 600Ω
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Analog Inputs
- RCA, XLR
- Analog Outputs
- RCA, XLR
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 380 × 100 × 305 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 10 kg (22 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions