Parasound have introduced a new version of their Halo JC 3 phono preamplifier, the Halo JC 3+. The new version adds independent load adjustment for MC cartridges and improvements to the dual mono phono module circuit boards which have been designed by John Curl.

“Six years ago we asked John Curl if he would create a reasonably priced Parasound Halo phono preamp with ultra low noise, in the spirit of his masterpiece, the Vendetta,” said Richard Schram, the founder of Parasound. “Three years later we introduced the remarkable Parasound Halo JC 3 which has earned rave reviews from the audiophile press and a legion of vinyl enthusiasts.”

Curl and circuit board designer Carl Thompson eventually consented to including variable load impedance adjustments, but with these caveats for the potentiometers: They must comply with stringent performance requirements and they must be manufactured by Vishay. At that time Vishay did not offer a potentiometer that met these specific requirements. However they recognized an opportunity, and eventually agreed to develop the part and manufacture it in small quantities for Parasound. The outcome of this effort is the Parasound Halo JC 3+.

The Parasound Halo JC 3+ will be available in late December in both silver and black finishes, and will have a suggested retail price of $2,850.