3

About the 3

The Muse Model 3 Signature is a stereo preamplifier known for its primarily neutral sound with a very slight touch of warmth, offering an even-handed frequency response and a grainless sonic character when paired with good sources. It features balanced and single-ended inputs and outputs, 31.5 dB of gain, output impedance of 50 ohms single-ended or 130+130 ohms balanced, polarity change control, mute, tape function, and volume adjustment in 0.5 dB increments via a 255-step digitally controlled analog attenuator. The preamp also supports individual gain matching for each input. The optional outboard display/power supply provides a large, automatically dimming volume display graduated in 0.5 dB increments for both left and right channels. The unit is built with short signal paths by connecting inputs and outputs directly to the board. Ergonomically, it uses up/down buttons for volume control rather than a knob, and the remote control is somewhat bulky. The Model 3 Signature can be upgraded through Muse's program, including adding the detached power supply/display later. It is highly regarded for its sound quality, offering a slightly more open high end and better-defined bass compared to some tubed preamps, though with slightly less dimensionality.