2. amps-preamps
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Phase Linear 3500

I found someone selling the Phase Linear 3500 online... asking $400. I have little info on older electronics. I have to questions.

1. Was this a good preamp back in the day?

2. Is this a good investment, or has technology come to far? I could buy a NAD C162 for around the same price ($500). I am wondering if the Phase Linear is an oldie but goodie or a relic of the past.

Thanks,
JC
carlito17
herman
2,215 posts
 
The preamps were OK compared to what was available at the time but it is a relic of the past. We used to call the power amps Flame Linears becuase they blew up on a regular basis. $400 is way to much to pay for a marginally performing outdated design.
talk2me's avatar
talk2me
325 posts
 
Get the NAD C162, even though The Phase helped me in high school.
carlito17 OP
2 posts
 
good to know, thanks!

I'll stick to something new like the Parasound Halo3 or the NAD c162

-JC
bob_bundus
1,834 posts
 
go with the NAD. Long ago I had a Phase 4000 pre; noisy, but I liked it until I learned to do better.
duffer2910
1 posts
 
I've been using the 3500 coupled with the 400 Series II Power Amp, daily, for 38 years with no trouble. Perhaps the naysayers are abusers.
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