Cortese LCR-3 vs Icon Audio PS3 MkII
The PS3 MkII's mc gain is 72 dB against the Cortese LCR-3's 80 dB, its output impedance 50Ω against 40Ω, and its input impedance 47000Ω against 100000Ω.
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
AmplifiersPre-AmplifiersPhono Pre-Amps
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$3,500 - $4,750
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the Cortese LCR-3
The Cortese LCR-3 is a hand-built, fully balanced tube preamplifier featuring a world-first LCR (inductance, capacitive, resistive) phono stage specifically designed for low-output moving coil cartridges. It delivers 80dB of quiet gain, eliminating the need for step-up transformers, and is compatible with MC cartridges from 0.1mV to 0.3mV. The phono stage uses custom Lundahl inductors for superior midrange realism and texture, while the line stage employs the renowned 6SN7/6H8C tubes for accurate, detailed, and dynamic sound. The preamp offers both balanced XLR and multiple RCA inputs/outputs, adjustable gain, remote control, and a robust, over-engineered external power supply with tube shunt regulators for each channel. The Cortese LCR-3 is celebrated for its open, controlled, and realistic soundstage, making it a reference-class component for discerning audiophiles.
Specifications
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- Output Impedance
- 40Ω
Phono Preamplifier
Phono stage specifications
- MC Gain
- 80 dB
- Adjustable Loading
- No
- Adjustable Capacitance
- No
Connectivity
Input and output connections
- Bluetooth
- No
- Wi-Fi
- No
- Ethernet
- No
- Analog Inputs
- RCA
- Analog Outputs
- XLR, RCA
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Available Colors
- Custom powder coat chassis
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions