Differences in sound in Parasound P3 and P5

shtinky,

I've never heard the P3, but I did own a P5 for a short time. It was feature packed, and relatively inexpensive considering all it had to offer. However, I did not think it sounded very good when compared to other pre-amps I've owned. I did not need most of the "extra" features it provided, so I was only auditioning it for its 2-channel sound quality. I found it lacking, just kind of flat sounding, like a modern HT receiver.

If you are looking for a feature rich pre-amp, the P5 might be a good choice. However, IMHO, if you are looking for high resolution, exciting sound, I would look elsewhere.

Would be happy to hear other opinions to see if they mirror mine.

All you have to do is search online for Parasound P5 opinions, most are quite impressed.  But like everything else, it depends on the rest of the system, the cables, the room and the listener's preferences.  No single component is loved by 100% of owners.

And sorry, can offer no help to the OP's comparison.

I'm wondering if you should not be comparing the P3 and P7 instead though. The P7 is a better preamp than the P5 by far, even if you only use it for 2 channel.