Tangent PREAMP III

The Tangent PreAmp III is the third generation of the Danish manufacturer’s compact preamplifiers. It retains the brand’s characteristic small footprint and includes features suited to modern audio setups, notably Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX-HD and a Trigger Out output.

Scandinavian design and compact build

The PreAmp III continues Tangent’s aesthetic tradition with a metal chassis in a particularly compact 200 x 65 x 200 mm format, weighing just 1 kg. This compactness is no afterthought: it reflects a design philosophy established over nearly three decades, where every square centimeter matters in modern living spaces. The front panel showcases a clean, minimalist Danish design with a single multifunction knob that serves as both volume control and source selector.

The chosen materials reflect a strong focus on durability. The all-metal chassis not only provides effective protection against electromagnetic interference but also ensures natural heat dissipation. The Bluetooth antenna, now integrated more cleanly than in previous generations, preserves the streamlined visual profile while optimizing wireless signal reception quality.

The new, more contemporary finish of the PreAmp III departs slightly from the strictly industrial look of earlier versions. The front LEDs, subtler and better integrated, indicate the selected source precisely without disrupting the visual harmony.

Extensive connectivity and Trigger Out functionality

The most notable aspect of this third generation is the introduction of a Trigger Out, a feature usually reserved for higher-end preamplifiers. This 12V connection enables automatic control of compatible power amplifiers, notably the brand’s PowerAmpster III, creating an integrated system where powering on the preamplifier automatically activates the associated amplifier.

Despite its compact size, the rear panel provides comprehensive connectivity. Analog inputs include a switchable dual-function RCA supporting both line and RIAA phono for turntables fitted with moving magnet cartridges, as well as an auxiliary 3.5 mm jack input. The optical digital input Toslink accepts signals up to 192 kHz, while the Bluetooth 5.1 module with aptX-HD certification ensures high-quality wireless transmission with minimized latency.

Outputs offer remarkable versatility with traditional RCA and balanced stereo XLR connections, allowing pairing with a wide range of power amplifiers or active speakers. The dedicated subwoofer output, with a fixed crossover frequency of 250 Hz and a 12 dB per octave slope, simplifies integrating a subwoofer into the system. The front-panel headphone output, on a 6.35 mm jack, benefits from a dedicated amplification circuit capable of driving headphones with various impedances.

Audio architecture and technical performance

The digital core of the PreAmp III is built around the converter Cirrus Logic CS4344, a 24-bit/192 kHz stereo DAC recognized for its linearity and low distortion. This component, from the fourth-generation multi-bit delta-sigma converter family, integrates a linear analog low-pass filter on-chip, thereby minimizing the number of components in the signal path.

Frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with exemplary consistency, while the signal-to-noise ratio above 92 dBA ensures quiet playback even at low volume. The RIAA correction circuit for the phono input reflects careful design, allowing direct connection of turntables without the need for an external phono preamplifier.

The parametric EQ offers an adjustment range of ±8 dB in 2 dB steps at 120 Hz, with a knee point above 1 kHz. This feature, accessible via the included remote control, allows tailoring the sonic signature to the room’s acoustics or personal preferences without distorting the musical message.

Smart features and ergonomics

The integrated universal 100–240V power supply eliminates the need for a bulky external adapter, contributing to a cleaner setup. The auto-standby function after 15 minutes of inactivity complies with European EuP 2013 standards with consumption below 0.5W in standby, reflecting environmental awareness in the design.

Auto wake on all sources adds convenient day-to-day usability. As soon as a signal is detected on any input, the PreAmp III automatically wakes from standby, avoiding repetitive actions. This is particularly handy when using Bluetooth sources, where simply starting a stream from a smartphone wakes the entire system.

The supplied remote goes beyond basic volume and source selection. It allows fine EQ adjustments and provides direct access to different inputs without sequential navigation. The logical control layout and generous IR range ensure comfortable operation from any listening position.

Integration within the Tangent ecosystem

The PreAmp III naturally fits into Tangent’s range of compact electronics, forming a coherent modular hi-fi system with the PowerAmpster III, the Tuner III, and the CD III. This modular approach lets users build their system progressively according to needs and budget while maintaining aesthetic and functional consistency.

Uniform dimensions across the range make stacking easy, creating an elegant audio column occupying less than 20 cm in width and depth. This remarkable compactness does not compromise performance, as each component is optimized to offer the best value in its category.

The new Trigger Out function comes into its own in this system configuration, enabling centralized power management. A single press on the PreAmp III’s remote can activate the entire chain, simplifying the daily user experience.

Technical specifications

Connectivity

• Bluetooth: version 5.1 AptX-HD for high-quality wireless streaming
• Digital input: 1 × optical Toslink
• Analog inputs
  • RCA Phono / Line and 3.5 mm stereo AUX
  • Phono / RIAA input: yes, moving magnet cartridge
• Analog outputs: stereo RCA and balanced XLR
• Headphone output: 1 × 6.35 mm
• Subwoofer output: yes, crossover at 250 Hz, 12 dB / oct

Audio processing

• Digital-to-analog converter: CS4344 24-bit, 192 kHz stereo
• Equalizer: -8 dB to +8 dB in 2 dB steps at 120 Hz, pivot point > 1 kHz

Audio performance

• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio: > 92 dBA

Features

• Remote control: yes
• Auto power-on: all sources
• Auto standby: yes, after 15 minutes
• 12 V trigger: trigger output for automatic control of a compatible amplifier

Power and consumption

• Power supply: 100 – 240 V built-in
• Standby consumption: < 0.50 W (EuP 2013)
• Bluetooth antenna: integrated

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 200 × 65 × 200 mm
• Net weight: 1 kg

Products in the same range

• Ampster BT III
• PowerAmpster III
• Tuner III
• CD III