Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Offers a Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DAC, providing quality digital audio conversion
- Includes a phono stage compatible with both MM and MC cartridges, offering flexibility for vinyl enthusiasts
- Features a built-in subwoofer crossover network, making it easy to integrate a subwoofer and optimize bass performance
- Provides a dedicated headphone amplifier for personal listening
- Offers input level matching to ensure consistent volume levels when switching between different sources
Product Considerations
- The small display with green characters on a lighter green background can be difficult to read
- One review noted a darker sound presentation initially, although this improved after some listening time
- The built-in DAC sounded a bit constrained compared to the Cambridge CXN's analog output
- Reviewers would like to see more digital inputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- When the 200 Pre was bypassed, the control over the sound was looser, less definitive, and dynamic variations were also lessened
- Used as a preamp, the NAD C 356BEE fell between the Cambridge CXN (V2) and the Parasound NewClassic 200 Pre, but closer to the latter
- The NewClassic 200 Pre's phono stage afforded a deeper, wider soundstage and warmer tonality than the Cambridge Audio 540P
Takeaway: The Parasound NewClassic 200 Pre is a versatile and well-featured preamplifier-DAC that delivers excellent value. It is a great option for audiophiles looking to build a high-quality two-channel hifi system with both digital and analog sources, plus the ability to easily integrate a subwoofer.
All
NC 200 Preamplifier
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz, +0 / -0.05 dB, 10 Hz - 80 kHz, +0 / -3 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.03 % (20 Hz - 20 kHz)
- Input Sensitivity: 250mv = 1V output
- Input Impedance: 24k Ohms
- Output Impedance: 470 Ohms
- S/N Ratio (Line Inputs): > 100 dB (IHF A-weighted)
- Power Consumption: 10 Watts maximum, <0.5 Watts in standby
- Dimensions: 17.25" x 14.25" x 2.5" (437mm x 362mm x 105mm)
- Weight: 11 lbs (5 kg)
- Shipping Weight: 17 lbs (7.7 kg)
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Parasound partners with legendary designer John Curl to create high-performing, reliable audio equipment known for its exceptional value.
- The brand meticulously selects high-quality components to minimize noise and distortion, often using parts that are no longer widely available, demonstrating a commitment to sonic neutrality.
- They offer versatile products with extensive input/output options, including unique features like adjustable subwoofer crossovers and gain matching capabilities.
- Parasound carefully balances high power output with finesse, resulting in a sound signature that is both dynamic and easy to listen to for extended periods.
Select products
HALO A23+
- Positioning: The entry-level power amplifier in Parasound's lineup.
- Description: Offers a compelling audio experience with its high bias Class A/AB operation, delivering 160 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It stands out with its direct-coupled design, which maintains signal purity and enhances transparency, unlike the more powerful A21+ which offers higher wattage and larger transformer capacity. This makes it ideal for smaller rooms or those on a tighter budget who still want high-quality sound.
HALO HINT6
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier that combines preamp and power amp functions in one unit.
- Description: Provides high-end performance with 160 watts per channel into 8 ohms, featuring a Burr Brown analog resistor ladder volume control for precise adjustments. It offers more connectivity options and a built-in DAC compared to the A23+, making it suitable for users needing an all-in-one solution with digital inputs and phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts.
HALO A21+
- Positioning: A mid-tier power amplifier offering more power and features than the A23+.
- Description: Delivering 300 watts per channel into 8 ohms, the A21+ is designed for those seeking more power and dynamic range. It features a larger transformer and higher filter capacitance than the A23+, providing better performance for larger rooms or more demanding speakers.
JC5
- Positioning: A high-end stereo power amplifier in the Parasound lineup.
- Description: Combines the power of monoblocks in a stereo amplifier, delivering 400 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It offers ultra-high bias Class A/AB operation, providing a more refined sound compared to the A21+, with a dual-mono design for superior channel separation.
JC1
- Positioning: The flagship monoblock power amplifier in Parasound's lineup.
- Description: Represents the pinnacle of Parasound's engineering, delivering 450 watts into 8 ohms with the first 25 watts in pure Class A. It features Bybee Music Rails for noise reduction and a custom R-core transformer, offering unmatched power and precision compared to the JC5. This groundbreaking amplifier makes it perfect for the most discerning audiophiles with large budgets and high-performance loudspeakers.
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Used
Parasound
What if you spend more?
Product Strengths
- Offers a versatile range of adjustments, including nine input impedance choices and four gain options, to match various cartridges
- Offers three different equalization curves (RIAA, Decca London, and American Columbia), unusual for phono stages in its price range
- Produces a clean, smooth, lucid, and well-balanced sound that is uncolored and neutral, allowing for greater transparency and speed
- Musical, smooth, coherent and dynamic, with a very good pace, rhythm, and timing
- Touchscreen interface is easy and intuitive to use
Product Considerations
- Moving magnet capacitance is set at 220pF and is not adjustable
- Some reviewers express concern about potential RF interference from the digital display affecting the analog circuitry, particularly with sensitive MC cartridges
- Instrumental images may be smaller than with other phono stages
- May sound a little weightless compared to significantly more expensive phono preamps
- Reviewers note the forthcoming PSU-5 power supply
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to a similarly priced phono stage, the Gold Note PH-5 provided greater insights into how Miles Davis played each note, and was more full-bodied and dynamic
- The Pathos In the Groove was more spacious and shapely sounding but lacked the PH-5's sense of control and smoothness
- Compared to the Gold Note PH-10, there's a remarkably similar sound, with a tad more weight to recordings played through the more expensive PH-10
- The PH-5 sounds closer to the GrandiNote Celio MK IV—a bit richer, smoother, and more saturated—whereas the ESE Lab Nibiru is more about speed, precision, and transparency
Takeaway: The Gold Note PH-5 is a versatile phono stage that sounds musical and natural. It provides many options to adjust the sound, and it is an affordable way to get great performance from vinyl records.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Straightforward, high-quality preamp that does everything asked of it, very well
- Includes tone control knobs for bass and treble to personalize the listening experience
- Allows turntable users to switch between moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) modes
- Features seven source audio inputs, a front-panel 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.1, optical and USB inputs, as well as a phono stage for turntables
Product Considerations
- Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity, while present, is not super high resolution compared with Wi-Fi and may not appeal to those seeking a more robust streaming experience
- Has no balanced inputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Against Rotel's RC-1572 MKII, the Adcom GFP-915 wins in many audiophile categories, such as a lower reported total harmonic distortion and noise floor
- The Schiit Freya S stereo preamp at $599 is another solid, no-frills audiophile option that can compare to the Adcom GFP-915
- The NAD C 3050 integrated amp's HDMI switching, internal DAC, Bluetooth 5.4 and phono stage might sway one to spend a few hundred more dollars than the Adcom
Takeaway: The Adcom GFP-915 is a traditional stereo preamp that delivers quality performance and offers a range of useful features for audiophiles. It is a worthwhile option for those seeking a simple and effective way to manage audio sources and volume control.
Video review
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Product Strengths
- Features a fully discreet headphone amplifier built-in that sounds good
- Offers flexibility with passive, low gain, and high gain settings, not commonly found at its price point
- Build quality feels good, with a nice textured black finish
- Features a precise 128-step attenuator for accurate left-right balance, unusual for a $699 preamplifier
- Features a metal remote with volume, mute, and input selection
Product Considerations
- One reviewer experienced the Kara going into protection mode and muting the sound when adjusting the volume quickly—requiring a power cycle to resolve
- One reviewer said they prefer the RCA input and output sound
- XLR inputs for stereo mode are not available
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Schiit Freya S: It replaces the Freya S and has significant upgrades, including a headphone jack and a more powerful power transformer
- Vs Pass Labs HPA1: The Pass Labs is a better-sounding pre-amplifier and headphone amplifier overall, but is significantly more expensive
Takeaway: The Kara preamplifier offers great flexibility with gain options and a good-sounding headphone amplifier. It's a well-built component that could be a good addition to an audio setup, especially if clarity is valued.
Video review
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Balanced connections improve sound, though stellar audio is available via RCA inputs
- Tighter and continuous control over load impedance via a potentiometer control
- Discrete circuit design offers a more neutral sound than integrated circuits
- Two turntables can be connected at once, one with XLRs and one with RCAs
- Expanded soundstage and individual instrument placement both horizontally and vertically
Product Considerations
- Turntable with XLR outputs needed to experience its best features
- More expensive if balanced connection features are not being used
- Tube box will push coloration into the mix, so tubes need careful system matching
- Balanced outputs and moving coil cartridge are needed to reveal the sort of detail that vinyl aficionados champion
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD Phono Preamp PP-1: Allows for markedly more detail and separation between instruments
- Vs Phono Box S3 B: Integrates all the technology from the SB3 and adds in a few extra features, as well as a potentiometer
- Vs Projects Tubebox DS3: The sound is far more clear, and the weighted treble and upper spectrum sound more pronounced
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject Phono Box DS3 B unlocks the potential of a turntable, enhancing the listening experience with more dynamics, details, and soundstage. It's a versatile phono preamp with remarkably neutral and detailed sound.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers versatility and convenience, informed by viewing it through the eyes of a vinyl enthusiast rather than an engineer
- Has completely independent preamps for MM and MC cartridges, enabling sound quality optimized specifically for each input individually
- Continuously variable load impedance via a rotary potentiometer
- Has a rumble (high-pass) filter that can cut out low frequency noises without significantly affecting the music
- Provides both unbalanced (RCA) and balanced (XLR) outputs
Product Considerations
- RCA terminals are close together, which may cause issues if the plugs on the RCA leads are unusually bulky
- The gain switch is located on the rear panel
- Does not have a standby mode
- Entry-level turntables may not improve appreciably with the addition of the XRM
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Parasound JC3 Jr: The JC3 JR has improved dynamics, vocals, guitars, and keys that pop a little more, and the bass is a little tighter
Takeaway: The Parasound Zphono XRM offers versatile features and improves the sound quality of mid-range turntables to provide a richer listening experience. It is a worthwhile upgrade for vinyl enthusiasts looking for more control and clarity in their analog setup.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality, versatility, and ease of use
- Reduces noise and reveals detail in vinyl records
- Delivers exceptional value for its price, especially considering its build quality and size
- Compact and minimalist design that fits into any audio setup, with solid build quality
- Features gold-plated RCA inputs/outputs for superior connectivity and minimizing signal loss, and a grounding post to eliminate hum and noise
Product Considerations
- May not satisfy audiophiles who demand the absolute highest level of performance from their audio components
- Not necessary for those who listen exclusively to digital music and do not use a turntable
Takeaway: The Parasound Z-Phono enhances vinyl listening by improving sound quality and reducing noise, making it a great value for those starting out with vinyl or building their first hifi system. Its versatile design fits easily into any setup and is a worthwhile investment.
Video review
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Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality, warm with lows and highs present, and a quiet noise floor
- Supports both Moving Magnet (MM) and Moving Coil (MC) cartridges
- Adjustable gain settings to match different cartridge output levels
- Metal construction for durability and shielding
- Offers DIY upgradeability with a socketed op-amp that can be swapped to change the sound signature
Product Considerations
- The ground post is positioned close to the power input, which can be inconvenient
- To power it off, one must press and hold the power button instead of pressing it quickly to turn it on, which is not intuitive
- Lacks a headphone jack
- Does not have a subsonic filter or capacitive loading switch
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Schiit Audio phono preamp, the Fosi Audio Box X5 is on par or better than the Schiit Audio phono preamp generation one version
Takeaway: The Fosi Audio Box X5 is a great value phono preamp that provides good sound quality and versatile features for both MM and MC cartridges. It is a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade from a built-in preamp or start with their first turntable.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- A very low noise floor, even with high gain settings for moving coil cartridges
- Various gain settings for moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, making it versatile
- An 'intelligent' subsonic filter effectively reduces rumble without negatively impacting bass frequencies
- A balanced 4.4mm output, which is uncommon in phono stages at this price point
- Impressive sound quality for its price, including a wide soundstage and good dynamics
Product Considerations
- Large diameter RCA plugs may not fit due to the small chassis
- The number of load settings is stated inconsistently across sources, with some stating four and others stating three
- Connecting RCA and balance output together simultaneously to two different amplifiers can result in noticeable humming noise
- One reviewer mentioned a 'clinical' sound that might pair better with warmer cartridges, though this was addressed by changing the setup
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The ZEN Phono 3 has a wider soundstage and better dynamics than the iFi Zenfone Stage
- The ZEN Phono 3 has deeper bass than the Accuphase AD-60, but slightly less clarity and definition in the bass region
- The ZEN Phono 3 delivers a larger, beefier—and more rhythmic sound than the built-in phono stage in the U-Turn Orbit Special
- The ZEN Phono 3 produces significantly less noise than the Musical Fidelity M5SI phono stage
Takeaway: The ZEN Phono 3 is a valuable phono stage that provides a clean and dynamic sound, along with features typically found in more expensive units. It is especially useful for those looking to upgrade from a basic phono stage or for vinyl enthusiasts who want to explore different cartridge types.
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