SL1 Mk3

About the SL1 Mk3

The Convergent Audio Technology SL-1 Signature Mk3 is a legendary tube preamplifier that has been in continuous production since 1985, with ongoing improvements in circuit board materials, capacitors, and internal wiring. It features a tube complement of six JJ E88CC (6922) tubes and four Tung-Sol 12AX7 tubes, delivering a rich, detailed, and remarkably musical sound. The Mk3 model upgraded the line stage tubes from 12AU7 to 6922 types, significantly reducing noise levels from -92dB to -112dB (unweighted) without changing gain, rise time, bandwidth, or slew rate. The preamplifier includes a world-class phono stage with 47dB gain, using five tubes (two input 6922s, two gain 12AX7s, and one output 6922). It offers multiple inputs (two line-level, one phono, tape) and outputs (two main plus tape), with frequency response of 0.1Hz–800kHz (+0/–3dB line) and 20Hz–20kHz (±0.1dB phono). Harmonic distortion is extremely low (<0.0005% line, <0.001% phono), and it has excellent signal-to-noise ratios and channel separation. The chassis is robust and heavy, with dimensions approximately 490mm W x 135mm H x 310mm D and weight around 29.1 kg. The SL-1 Signature Mk3 is considered by many audiophiles as one of the best preamplifiers in the world, with a It includes a separate power supply and is known for its meticulous design and sonic excellence.