SLP-70

About the SLP-70

The Cary Audio Design SLP-70 is a Class A, all-triode tube preamplifier featuring zero feedback and a built-in phono stage. It uses a total of six tubes: two 12AX7 tubes in the phono stage, two 6SL7 tubes in the line stage, and two 6SN7 tubes in the cathode follower output stage. The preamp includes five inputs, a tape monitor loop with switch, a high-quality Noble volume potentiometer, and a balance control. It is designed to be left on continuously with separate power and standby switches to keep the circuitry warmed up for optimal playback quality. The unit employs silver contact switches and Tiffany, OFC, gold-plated input jacks with Teflon insulation. The circuit board is double-sided with plated-through holes, using 1% metal film resistors and polystyrene and polypropylene capacitors, avoiding electrolytics in the signal path. The SLP-70 is praised for its natural midrange quality and life-like sound reproduction. It measures 4" x 16.5" x 11.5", weighs 21 lbs, and has a black anodized aluminum finish. Originally released in 1993, it helped establish Cary Audio's reputation and was used with the famous Cary Audio 300SE monoblock single-ended triode amplifier.