Cortese LCR-3

About the Cortese LCR-3

The Cortese LCR-3 is a hand-built, fully balanced tube preamplifier featuring a world-first LCR (inductance, capacitive, resistive) phono stage specifically designed for low-output moving coil cartridges. It delivers 80dB of quiet gain, eliminating the need for step-up transformers, and is compatible with MC cartridges from 0.1mV to 0.3mV. The phono stage uses custom Lundahl inductors for superior midrange realism and texture, while the line stage employs the renowned 6SN7/6H8C tubes for accurate, detailed, and dynamic sound. The preamp offers both balanced XLR and multiple RCA inputs/outputs, adjustable gain, remote control, and a robust, over-engineered external power supply with tube shunt regulators for each channel. The Cortese LCR-3 is celebrated for its open, controlled, and realistic soundstage, making it a reference-class component for discerning audiophiles.