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A message of thanks and introduction to the PrimaLuna EVO Tube Poweramplifiers.
Essential warnings to prevent injury, electrical shock, or fire during amplifier operation.
Details the items included and provides step-by-step initial setup instructions.
Explains the automatic bias adjustment circuit for improved performance and reduced distortion.
Details the switch for selecting optimal bias settings for different tube types.
Guide to switching between Ultralinear and Triode modes and their sonic characteristics.
Information on tube lifespan, best practices for use, and general care.
Crucial advice on correct tube alignment to prevent amplifier damage.
Information on mains fuse and auto bias fuse, including replacement procedures and warnings.
Explanation of Soft Start™ and BTI™ (Bad Tube Indication) circuits.
Steps to diagnose and fix issues related to no sound output or amplifier not powering on.
Guidance on identifying and resolving noise or hum problems in the audio channels.
Details the warranty period, conditions, limitations, and the product return/remedy process.
The PrimaLuna Evolution Series Tube Poweramplifiers are high-quality audio instruments designed to deliver exceptional sound. These amplifiers are available in several models: EVO 100-4, EVO 200-4, EVO 300-4, and EVO 400-4, catering to different power and feature requirements.
The PrimaLuna Evolution Series amplifiers are tube-based power amplifiers, meaning they use vacuum tubes to amplify audio signals. This design choice is often favored by audiophiles for its characteristic warm, rich, and natural sound. The amplifiers are designed to be the heart of a music system, taking a low-level audio signal from a preamplifier and boosting it to drive loudspeakers.
A key feature of these amplifiers is their ability to operate in both stereo and mono configurations. This versatility allows users to adapt the amplifier to various audio setups, whether for a traditional two-channel stereo system or a more powerful monoblock arrangement. The EVO 300-4 and EVO 400-4 models also offer Ultralinear and Triode modes, providing different sonic characteristics to suit listener preferences. Ultralinear mode delivers a more accurate, dynamic, and detailed sound with greater impact, while Triode mode offers a warmer, more relaxed sound with a slightly more pronounced midband, albeit with reduced maximum power output.
The amplifiers incorporate several advanced technologies to enhance performance and reliability. The exclusive Adaptive Auto Bias™ circuit continuously monitors and adjusts the bias of the output tubes. This intelligent system not only reduces maintenance by eliminating the need for manual bias adjustments but also significantly improves sound quality by reducing distortion, particularly at moderate power levels. This circuit also includes an extensive output stage protection system with a +B relay to safeguard output transformers, resistors, and the high-voltage power supply in the event of a tube failure.
Another protective feature is the PTP™ (Power Transformer Protection) circuit. This internal thermal switch prevents damage by breaking the primary circuit if the power transformer overheats due to environmental conditions, overloading, or internal issues. Once cooled, the circuit restores power, allowing the amplifier to function normally if no damage has occurred.
The PrimaLuna Evolution Series amplifiers are designed for ease of use and flexibility. Initial setup involves carefully unpacking the amplifier, removing the tube cage, and ensuring all tubes are firmly seated in their sockets. White gloves are provided to prevent fingerprint smudges during handling. Once connected to a preamplifier and loudspeakers, the amplifier can be powered on. A brief warm-up period of about 60 seconds is recommended before optimal performance is achieved.
The front panels of these amplifiers are clean and minimalist, with no controls visible from the front. The power switch and auto bias fuse are located on the left side, behind the front plate, while the bias switch is on the right side, also behind the front plate.
The rear panel features inputs and speaker terminals. The input can be switched between mono and stereo (though not while the amplifier is on). Speaker taps are provided for 2, 4, 8, and 16 Ohm impedance loudspeakers, allowing users to experiment and find the best match for their specific speakers.
For models with Ultralinear-Triode switching (EVO 300-4 and EVO 400-4), this function can be controlled remotely. The amplifier does not need to be turned off to switch between modes, and a faint click through the speakers is normal and harmless. The EVO 300-4 and 400-4 models always start in Ultralinear mode when powered up, but if switched off in Triode mode, they will power on again in Triode mode. Two color LEDs on the front panel indicate the current mode: red for Ultralinear and green for Triode.
The remote control, which may require batteries to be installed upon arrival, provides convenient access to the TR/UL (Triode/Ultralinear) selection. Larger system remotes also offer source selection, volume, and mute functions, and can control basic functions of PrimaLuna CD players. The remote controls are designed with protective rubber rings on each end to prevent damage.
Maintenance of the PrimaLuna Evolution Series amplifiers is simplified by their design. The Adaptive Auto Bias™ circuit significantly reduces the need for manual tube bias adjustments and allows for the use of unmatched tubes, extending tube life and reducing maintenance.
Tube replacement is a key maintenance aspect. The 12AX7 and 12AU7 tubes typically have a lifespan of 5,000 to 10,000 hours, while power tubes generally last between 2,000 and 3,000 hours, depending on usage. When replacing tubes, it's crucial to use the same type or equivalent tubes. Care must be taken to align tube pins with the socket's center key to avoid damaging the amplifier. Repeated swapping of tubes is discouraged to prevent loosening of tube sockets.
Fuse protection is integrated for safety and ease of maintenance. The mains fuse is located on the rear panel, below the power cord socket, and should only be replaced with the exact same type and rating (Littelfuse 213 Series 3.15A Slow Blow for 100-125VAC or 1.6A Slow Blow for 200-250VAC). The Adaptive Auto Bias Board is also protected by an easily accessible Littelfuse 213 315mA fuse located near the power switch. Always unplug the AC cord and wait 10 minutes for the circuit to discharge before checking or replacing fuses.
The BTI™ (Bad Tube Indication) circuit further aids maintenance by identifying failing output tubes. If an output tube draws excessive current, the BTI™ circuit interrupts the high-voltage supply to protect the amplifier and loudspeakers. The front LED will turn red, and a red LED in front of the problematic power tube may light up. To reset, the amplifier must be powered off for at least two minutes, and the cause of the failure must be identified and resolved before repowering. This ensures the circuit has enough time to reset and prevents it from re-entering protection mode.
Troubleshooting tips are provided in the manual to address common issues such as no output, noise, or hum, guiding users through steps like checking connections, fuses, and swapping tubes to identify and resolve problems.
General| Input Sensitivity | 300mV |
|---|---|
| Input Impedance | 100k Ohms |
| Speaker Taps | 4 Ohm, 8 Ohm |
| Inputs | 4 x RCA |
| Tube Complement | 4 x EL34, 2 x 12AU7, 2 x 12AX7 |
| Type | Integrated Amplifier |
| Frequency Response | 10Hz |
| Outputs | Tape Out |
| Power Consumption | 280W |
| Power Output (Ultralinear) | 40 Watts x 2 (8 Ohms) |
| Weight | 23kg |
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