Gato Audio PRE-1 Preamplifier

Since the introduction of the PWR-222 mono power amplifiers we have craved for a fully balanced reference preamplifier to match the ultimate quality of the PWR-222's - to finally reach their real performance ceiling. Therefore, it is with great pleasure that we introduce to you the PRE-1: a dual mono, fully balanced reference preamplifier with optional Phono stage, SABRE DAC and Streaming modules available.

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Fully Balanced

Straight from the input and all the way through the PRE-1 the circuits are of balanced design. This means even through the critical volume attenuation and all in and outputs we're maintaining fully symmetrical design, ensuring super low noise and distortion, preservation of every small detail - leaving a 3D soundstage, combined with natural and smooth musical presentation like you've never heard before...

Dual Mono

The PRE-1 features a dual mono design philosophy, splitting out left and right signal in each side of the preamplifier, each with its own dedicated low noise power supply for all analog circuits. Shared circuits are used only for logic and control, including the heavy duty 32-bit Coldfire microprocessor overseeing all operations inside the PRE-1.

Fully Configurable

The bright and clear OLED display offers a more personalized operation than ever on a Gato Audio product, as all inputs can be named specifically by the user. The attenuation offset can likewise be set for each input individually, saying goodbye to the annoyance of low level sources. These are all small details that make the life with the PRE-1 just a tad nicer.

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More Options

Although the features of the basic PRE-1 are quite extensive, it offers two slots for additional feature boards. We are offering three extensions boards to choose from :

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• ESS-1 SABRE DAC board supporting MQA, DSD and 32/384kHz PCM

• MMC-1 phono stage supporting MM and Current Mode MC input

• NPM-2 Roon Ready network streamer supporting TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect and other services (this is only available together with the ESS-1 board)

Bespoke Cover
As standard we offer top covers in high gloss black, white and real walnut veneer to match the finish of our loudspeakers. But what if you prefer to have your PRE-1 match another brand of speakers or a piece of furniture or the color of your Lamborghini? Gato Audio offer to make bespoke top covers for you. It could be special painted covers or covers made from solid wood. Contact us at hello@gato-audio.com and tell us what you have in mind.

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Features
Fully balanced design
5 analog input, 3xRCA and 2xXLR
2 analog outputs, 1xRCA and 1xXLR
Gain and name setting for each input with memory
 

Two option slots for upgrade modules
ESS-1 Dac module:
Sabre DAC, ESS9038PRO chip:
MQA support
DSD up to 256
1xUSB, 2xToslink, 2xRCA
 

MMC-1 Phonostage module :
MM/MC
Adjustable capacitance load
Adjustable gain
 

NPM-2 Streaming module (only together with ESS-1 option) :
Roon Ready
Tidal Connect
Spotify Connect
Qobuz
Deezer
Internet radio
DNLA/UPNP
MQA
DSD
 

Volume controlled headphone output, 6,3mm Jack
Combi display with OLED and analog meter
12V standby trigger
Remote controlled
Designed, developed and built in Copenhagen, Denmark

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