AVM Evolution PAS 3.3 Streaming Preamplifier, Cellini Chrome

The AVM Evolution PAS 3.3 is a streaming preamplifier in pure transistor technology, combining a network player, D/A converter, phono preamp and analog preamp in a single unit – without a power amp of its own.

AVM has been building preamplifiers since 1986, and the PAS 3.3 is the Evolution series' all-in-one idea: every source goes in, a cleanly regulated signal comes out – to your power amp or to active speakers. You'll look for tubes here in vain, and that's by design: those sit in the sister model PAS 5.3, behind the glass panel in the lid. The PAS 3.3 works entirely transistor-based under a closed, brushed aluminum lid.

Why the Evolution PAS 3.3?

Because it can do almost everything except power amplification. HiRes streaming via the AVM X-STREAM Engine (Qobuz, TIDAL Connect MAX, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Roon Ready, HighResAudio, UPnP, internet radio), a double-quad DAC with four ESS9028PRO converters per channel up to 384 kHz/32-bit and DSD256, a full-fledged phono preamp for MM and MC – and an HDMI ARC input, so your TV finally sounds as good as it looks. The PAS 3.3 controls volume entirely in the analog domain.

What you hear and get

A distinctly neutral, very low-noise sound that adds nothing of its own – plus a complete source stage on top: four analog inputs (3× RCA, 1× XLR), a separate phono input, two S/PDIF inputs, USB-A for hard drives, plus LAN, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0. Output runs via pre-outs in RCA and XLR, a fixed line-out and two digital outputs that can be level-controlled on request. Add to that a dedicated headphone amp, tone controls with parametric loudness, and a dimmable graphic display with proximity sensor. This version comes as Cellini Chrome, with a hand-polished, chrome-plated front and brushed aluminum lid. Streaming is an option here, not a must: internet radio, files on the network, USB, vinyl and TV sound all work without a paid subscription too.

Who is the Evolution PAS 3.3 right for?

Let's be honest: the PAS 3.3 is a preamp. It has no power amp and doesn't drive speakers directly – you need a power amp or active speakers behind it. In return, it's the heart of a preamp/power amp chain and bundles streaming, vinyl and TV sound at a level you'd otherwise spread across three devices. If you want an all-in-one solution with speaker terminals, you're better served by an integrated amp. And if you want tube warmth in the signal path, go for the PAS 5.3.

Our verdict

The PAS 3.3 is the no-nonsense variant of the Evolution preamp: neutral, quiet, technically state of the art, and with a connection list that leaves hardly any question unanswered. In Cellini Chrome it becomes a piece of furniture you won't want to hide in a rack. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, we'll set it up with you – network, phono tuning and power amp matching included.

Technical Specifications

• Type: Streaming preamplifier (preamp, no power amp), pure transistor technology
• Streaming: AVM X-STREAM Engine – AirPlay, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect MAX, Qobuz, Roon Ready, HighResAudio, UPnP, internet radio
• Multiroom: AVM RoomConneXion
• DAC: Double-quad ESS9028PRO, four converters per channel, up to 384 kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD256 (coaxial max. 192 kHz/24-bit)
• Phono: MM 40/50 dB (S/N > 84 dB(A)), MC 60/70 dB (> 75 dB(A))
• Phono matching: MC loading 100/180/220/330/660/1000/2000 Ω, MM capacitance 47/100/150/200/270/310/410 pF, adjustable via the RC X app
• Analog inputs: 4 (3× RCA, 1× XLR), plus 1× phono input (MM/MC)
• Digital inputs: 2× S/PDIF (coaxial, optical), 1× HDMI (ARC), 1× USB-A (NTFS/FAT)
• Network: LAN, Wi-Fi 2.4/5 GHz (802.11a/b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth 5.0
• Outputs: 2× pre-out (RCA, XLR), 1× line-out (RCA), 2× digital out (S/PDIF)
• Output level: pre-out variable, max. 8.5 V (1% THD); line-out fixed 2.5 V; digital out with optional volume control
• Headphone output: present, dedicated headphone amp (7 V at 1% THD, 24 Ω output impedance)
• Frequency response: < 0 Hz to > 100 kHz
• Distortion: < 0.001%
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 100 dB
• Tone controls: tone controls and parametric loudness with bypass
• Display: dimmable graphic display with touch-point and proximity sensor
• Control: RC X app (iOS/Android), RC 3 remote control, connector for external IR sensor
• Control ports: trigger input 5–20 V, trigger outputs 12 V (sequentially switched)
• Power consumption: max. 25 W, idle < 16 W, network standby < 2 W, standby < 0.5 W
• Finish: Cellini Chrome (hand-polished, chrome-plated front), closed lid
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 430 × 122 × 350 mm
• Weight: 8 kg

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the AVM Evolution PAS 3.3 have tubes?

No. The PAS 3.3 is a purely transistor-based unit and works under a closed aluminum lid. The tube line stage behind the glass panel belongs to the sister model PAS 5.3. Connections, converter and phono section are identical on both – the difference lies solely in the amplification stage, and therefore in the sound character.

Does the AVM Evolution PAS 3.3 have a phono preamp?

Yes, a full-fledged one for MM and MC cartridges. MM amplifies by 40 or 50 dB, MC by 60 or 70 dB. You set the loading resistance and capacitance in the RC X app, without opening the case. A separate phono input is permanently built in for this.

Do I still need a power amp for the PAS 3.3?

Yes. The PAS 3.3 is a pure preamp with no power amp of its own and doesn't drive speakers directly. You run it into a stereo or mono power amp, or into active speakers. We're happy to help you work out which power amp suits your speakers.

What is the Cellini Chrome finish?

Cellini Chrome is AVM's hand-polished, chrome-plated front panel. Technically the unit is identical to the black and silver aluminum versions – same connections, same converter, same phono section. The difference is purely visual, and it's a look that stands out in a bright living room.

Why buy the AVM Evolution PAS 3.3 from HD Zürisee?

Because as a Qobuz Hi-Fi partner, we bring streaming cleanly into your network and tune the phono section precisely to your cartridge. Setup, power amp matching and service are handled by our own technician in Wädenswil. Call 044 680 22 00 or message us on WhatsApp at 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls).

Goes well with

You'll find the right power amp under Power Amps, a turntable for your vinyl treasures under Turntables, and matching Speakers.