Parasound JC 3+ Phono Preamplifier - Black

A John Curl-Designed Flagship Phono Stage

The Parasound Halo JC 3+ is an MM/MC phono preamplifier designed by legendary circuit designer John Curl. It's a thorough update of the original JC 3. It sits above the more compact JC 3 Jr in Parasound's current lineup.

The biggest change from the original JC 3 is variable moving coil loading. The first JC 3 offered little adjustment. The JC 3+ adds continuously variable loading. It also adds a refined gain stage, a beefier power supply, and a larger power transformer.

Both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections are included on the inputs and outputs. Neutrik XLR connectors and gold-plated Vampire RCA jacks are used throughout, a detail serious cable-swappers will appreciate.

Precision Gain and Continuously Variable Loading

Moving magnet gain is fixed at 48dB, with a fixed 47 kOhm input impedance. Moving coil gain is fixed at 64dB. Its loading is continuously variable from 50 to 550 ohms, or switchable to a fixed 47 kOhm setting for high-output MC cartridges.

Input capacitance is fixed at 150pF. RIAA accuracy is rated within ±0.2dB from 20Hz to 20kHz.

Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 87dB A-weighted on both MM and MC. THD stays under 0.01% at 1kHz. Crosstalk stays better than 72dB at that same frequency.

It measures 17.25 by 13.75 by 4.13 inches. It weighs 19 pounds. Power consumption runs at 12 watts operating, dropping to 1 watt in standby.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Neil Gader reviewed the JC 3+ for The Absolute Sound in August 2014. He found that "backgrounds are still eerily quiet, instrumental colors ripe, and channel separation exquisite." The "+" update, he wrote, "kicked low-level transparency up a notch." It brought "a heightened resolution of dynamic gradients."

Michael Lavorgna reviewed it for Twittering Machines in April 2023. He described how "sounds emerged from silence to peak and back down again with silky precision." The JC 3+, he added, "completely steps aside and lets the music flow."

Who Is This Preamp Best For?

• Collectors building a genuine reference-level system. John Curl's circuit design and low noise floor aim at serious analog performance.
• Owners of a moving coil cartridge that needs precise loading. Continuously variable MC loading, not just fixed steps, dials in an exact match.
• Anyone building a balanced XLR system. Both balanced and unbalanced connections are included on the inputs and outputs.
• Listeners who want proven, independently reviewed performance. Multiple named reviewers at respected publications praised its quiet backgrounds and resolution.
• Not the right fit for anyone on a tighter budget. Parasound's more compact JC 3 Jr covers similar ground at a lower price point.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Run your turntable's cable into the JC 3+'s RCA or XLR input, matched to your tonearm's cable. Connect its RCA or XLR output to your preamp the same way.

Dial in the moving coil loading control to match your cartridge. Give the unit time to warm up before critical listening sessions.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the Parasound JC 3+:

• Turntables with a high-performance tonearm and cartridge
• Moving coil phono cartridges matched to its variable loading
• Preamplifiers with balanced XLR inputs
• Interconnect cables, balanced or unbalanced, to connect its outputs

Frequently Asked Questions

How is this different from the original JC 3?

The original JC 3 offered little loading adjustment. The JC 3+ adds continuously variable MC loading, a refined gain stage, and a stronger power supply and transformer.

How does this compare to the JC 3 Jr?

The JC 3 Jr is a more compact, more affordable model in Parasound's lineup. The JC 3+ is the larger, full-featured flagship version.

Can I use balanced XLR connections with this preamp?

Yes. Balanced XLR inputs and outputs are included, alongside unbalanced RCA connections.

What's the warranty?

Parasound covers the JC 3+ with a five-year warranty on parts and labor, for the original purchaser when bought from an authorized US dealer.

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Learn More

Want to learn more about matching a phono preamp to your cartridge, balanced connections, or getting the most from your vinyl collection? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.