Atoll PR300 Evolution Preamplifier, Black

The Atoll PR300 Evolution is an analog stereo preamplifier in fully balanced dual-mono construction that gathers sources, controls volume, and passes the signal on to a separate power amplifier.

A preamp is the most unassuming component in a system, and at the same time the one every signal has to pass through. Atoll treats it accordingly: 6.8 kilograms for a unit that essentially just controls volume.

Why the PR300 Evolution?

Because of the power supply, which here turns out almost bigger than in some integrated amplifiers: two separate 10 VA toroidal transformers for the audio stages, a dedicated transformer for the digital audio section, a third for the control logic — backed by 89,000 µF of smoothing capacitance. The signal path is fully balanced and built discretely, with volume controlled separately per channel. Both channels stay strictly separate all the way to the output.

What you'll hear

Above all, what you no longer hear. The noise floor drops, spaces grow larger instead of louder, and quiet passages keep their structure. Connection runs through five RCA inputs, one balanced XLR input, and a home cinema bypass; output runs through two RCA outputs and one XLR output — enough for two power amplifiers or an additional subwoofer. An OLED display shows source and level.

Who is the PR300 Evolution for?

For anyone moving to separate pre- and power amps — ideally paired with the Atoll AM300 Evolution. And for anyone who wants to run home cinema and stereo through the same speakers. Plain talk: it has no headphone output, no streaming, and no digital inputs from the factory — those only arrive with the DA100 or DA200 card. And without a power amplifier behind it, nothing happens at all. If you want a one-box solution, reach for the IN300 Evolution instead.

Our verdict

The PR300 Evolution is the preamp for people who understand that cleanliness is created before the power amp, not after. The Dutch FWD Magazine tested it alongside the AM300 and ST300 Signature on 2 April 2026, awarding it 9 out of 10 points and the "FWD Aanrader Award." Wondering whether the step from integrated amp to pre/power is worth it? That's exactly what we're here for: 044 680 22 00 or WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 — HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

Technical data

• Type: analog stereo preamplifier, fully balanced in dual-mono construction
• Power supply: 2 × 10 VA toroidal transformer for the audio stages, 3.2 VA for digital audio, 5 VA for the control logic
• Smoothing capacitance: 89,000 µF
• Analog inputs: 5 × line RCA (of which 1 × AUX, switchable to phono card), 1 × balanced XLR, 1 × bypass
• Digital inputs: not standard — retrofittable via DA100 or DA200 option card
• Outputs: 2 × line RCA, 1 × balanced XLR, 12V trigger
• Output level: adjustable (volume controlled separately per channel); the bypass input passes through unregulated
• Headphone output: not present
• Frequency response: 5 Hz – 100 kHz (−3 dB)
• THD: 0.005% at 1 kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB analog, 120 dB with DA200 card
• Input impedance: 357 kOhm, input sensitivity 3 volts
• Slew rate: 1.5 µs
• Display: OLED display for source and volume
• Option cards: phono P50 (MM) or P100 (MM/MC), D/A converter DA100 or DA200
• Chassis: 8 mm brushed, micro-blasted, and anodised aluminium front
• Colour: Black
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 440 × 95 × 365 mm
• Weight: 6.8 kg
• Warranty: 2 years
• Included: Atoll PR300 Evolution, Atoll universal remote control, power cable, user manual

Frequently asked questions

What does a separate preamp offer over an integrated amplifier?
Separation. The sensitive signal processing sits in its own chassis, far from the stray fields of large power-amp transformers. On the PR300 Evolution, 89,000 µF of smoothing capacitance is added just for the preamp — you hear that above all in the quietness.

Does the Atoll PR300 Evolution have a headphone output?
No. The PR300 Evolution is a pure preamp without a headphone amplifier. Older listings in the trade refer to the predecessor model, the PR300 Signature. So for headphones you'll need a separate unit — we can show you suitable solutions.

Can I connect a turntable to the PR300 Evolution?
Yes, with a phono card. The P50 turns the AUX input into an MM input, and the P100 can also handle MM and MC with switchable termination impedance. Alternatively, connect an external phono preamp to one of the five line inputs.

What's the bypass input on the PR300 Evolution good for?
Home cinema integration. Through the bypass, the signal passes unregulated through the preamp to your power amp, so an AV receiver controls the volume of the front channels. That way you use the same speakers and the same power amp for both stereo and film.

Why buy the Atoll PR300 Evolution at HD Zürisee?
Because a separate pre/power combination only makes sense when levels, impedances, and cabling all match up. That's exactly where we advise you, retrofit a phono or DAC card if needed, and handle installation and service with our own technician.

Pairs well with

Its natural partner is a power amplifier — the Atoll AM300 Evolution is matched to it. As sources, a streamer, a CD player, and a turntable all fit; balanced cables play right into its hands.