EAR Yoshino 834L Line Preamplifier
2 361,00 €
The EAR Yoshino 834L is a valve line preamplifier for a system using separate source components and a power amplifier. Five line-level inputs provide centralised selection of analogue sources. A tape-monitor circuit adds a sixth selection for monitoring recording and playback signals. Three dual-triode valves operate in a minimalist circuit designed by Tim de Paravicini. The output is intended for valve or solid-state power amplifiers, including units positioned farther away from the source components.
The EAR Yoshino 834L line preamplifier is a valve line-stage preamplifier designed for a system built around analogue sources and a separate power amplifier. Its five line-level inputs allow several sources to be selected and controlled from one place. A tape-monitor circuit provides a separate sixth selection.
This model is intended for listeners assembling a system from separate components. It selects the required source and controls the signal level sent to the power amplifier. Loudspeakers cannot be connected directly to the 834L.
Connecting sources
The five line-level inputs can accommodate equipment such as a CD player, media player or external digital-to-analogue converter. The connected source must provide an analogue line-level signal. This allows one preamplifier to manage both fully analogue equipment and digital sources equipped with analogue outputs.
The 834L does not have an integrated phono stage. A turntable must first be connected to an EAR 834P or another separate phono preamplifier. The line-level output from that phono stage can then be connected to any one of the five main inputs.
The tape-monitor circuit is provided for monitoring recording and playback signals. It is useful with a tape recorder equipped with the appropriate recording and monitoring connections. For an ordinary line-level source, use one of the five main inputs instead.
The input and output contacts are gold-plated. All input sockets are mounted on the rear of the enclosure. The selector switches are also located at the rear and are mechanically linked to the front-panel control by long operating shafts.
Controls and initial setup
A volume control is fitted to the front panel. It adjusts the level of the signal passed to the power amplifier. When switching on the system for the first time, begin with the volume set low and then increase it gradually until the desired listening level is reached.
The source selector operates the input switches positioned at the rear. It is sensible to reduce the volume before changing sources. A power switch is also located on the front panel, keeping the main controls required for everyday use within easy reach.
Valve circuitry and power supply
The circuit, designed by Tim de Paravicini, uses three dual-triode valves. Its minimalist electronic architecture was chosen to alter the signal passing through the preamplifier as little as possible. Particular attention was paid to the input circuit, which receives the signal from each connected source.
The mains transformer supplies a dual direct-current power supply. One section powers the valve-heater circuit, while the other provides the high anode voltage. Direct-current operation is intended to prevent alternating-current ripple from entering the sensitive preamplifier circuitry.
The valves’ operating conditions were selected with the aim of achieving at least five years of continuous operation. This is a design objective rather than a guaranteed valve-replacement interval. Actual service life depends on the conditions in which the unit is used.
Positioning within the system and room
The 834L can be placed close to the source components, with longer interconnect cables running to the power amplifier. This can be useful when power amplifiers are positioned nearer the loudspeakers. Such an arrangement can shorten the loudspeaker cables while keeping source selection and volume control conveniently grouped in one location.
The output is intended for use with both valve and solid-state power amplifiers.
Three valves operate inside the enclosure, so adequate space must be left around the unit for air circulation. Additional clearance is required at the rear for connectors and for the cables to bend without strain. An enclosed shelf without ventilation is not suitable for this model.
Classic and Deluxe versions
The 834L was offered in Classic and Deluxe versions. The Deluxe version features chrome and gold-coloured trim, additional outputs and a neon power indicator. Its additional outputs are intended for a multi-amplifier system using more than one power amplifier.
These features apply only to the Deluxe version. This listing does not specify whether the unit offered is the Classic or Deluxe version, so the Deluxe finish, neon indicator and additional outputs should not be assumed to be included without confirmation. When choosing a particular version, examine its front panel and the arrangement of its rear connections.
Technical specifications
| Manufacturer and model | EAR Yoshino 834L |
|---|---|
| Type | Valve line preamplifier |
| Purpose | Selection of analogue line-level sources and control of the level sent to a power amplifier |
| Designer | Tim de Paravicini |
| Valves | 3 dual-triode valves |
| Line-level inputs | 5 |
| Additional circuit | Tape-monitor circuit |
| Total number of selections | 6, including tape monitoring |
| Input location | Rear of the enclosure |
| Contacts | Gold-plated input and output contacts |
| Controls | Source selector, volume control and front-panel power switch |
| Power-supply system | Mains transformer and dual direct-current power supply |
| Powered circuits | Low-voltage valve-heater circuit and high-voltage anode circuit |
| Power-amplifier types | Valve and solid-state |
| Cable use | Output designed for longer interconnect cables |
| Versions | Classic and Deluxe |
| Deluxe-version features | Chrome and gold-coloured trim, additional outputs and a neon power indicator |
FAQ
Can loudspeakers be connected directly to the 834L?
No. This is a preamplifier, not a power amplifier or integrated amplifier. Its output connects to a separate power amplifier, which drives the loudspeakers.
What is required to connect a turntable?
A separate phono preamplifier, such as the EAR 834P, is required. Connect its line-level output to the chosen input on the 834L.
Can a digital music source be connected?
Yes, provided that the source has an analogue line-level output. Use one of the main line inputs for an external digital-to-analogue converter, CD player or media player.
When is the tape-monitor circuit useful?
It is intended for comparing the recording and playback signals of a compatible tape recorder. Without the corresponding tape-recorder connections, this circuit offers no additional benefit.
Is the 834L suitable for both valve and solid-state power amplifiers?
Yes. Its line-level output is intended for use with either valve or solid-state power amplifiers.
How can a multi-amplifier system be assembled?
The additional outputs on the Deluxe version are provided for this purpose. They allow the signal to be sent to more than one power amplifier. These connections are not a standard feature of every version.
Where is the best place to position the preamplifier?
Place it near the source components and leave sufficient room for ventilation. Allow clearance behind it for the connections, particularly when using stiffer interconnect cables.
Is five years a guaranteed service life for the valves?
No. The circuit’s operating conditions were selected with that objective under continuous-operation conditions. It is not a guarantee or a prescribed replacement interval.
