Octave HP 300 SE Preamplifier

The Octave HP 300 SE is the evolution of the acclaimed HP 300 MK2, which itself drew from Octave’s reference Jubilee Preamp. Designed to combine sonic refinement with system versatility, the HP 300 SE introduces significant upgrades, including a newly developed line stage with an extremely high signal-to-noise ratio, an advanced external power supply, and a broad array of input and output options.

At the heart of the design is its external power supply system: a mains transformer with optimized filtering and precision low-noise voltage regulators within the preamp. This configuration eliminates noise and interference from the mains, ensuring clean, stable power delivery. The balanced output stage employs a precision transformer that allows ground connections to the power amplifier to be switched on or off—helping to eliminate hum or leakage currents often introduced by connected components.

Connectivity is extensive, with two XLR inputs, three RCA inputs, two RCA outputs, one XLR output, and a monitor output that can be used for recording devices, headphone amplifiers, or PC A/D inputs. An optional MC phono input with multiple settings further enhances versatility for vinyl playback. The HP 300 SE also features a home theater bypass, selectable for RCA or XLR, allowing seamless integration into multi-channel systems.

Performance is further optimized with selectable three-stage gain, enabling precise matching to loudspeaker efficiency and overall system configuration. With its very low output resistance, both RCA and XLR outputs maintain signal integrity even with cable runs up to 10 meters.

Combining advanced power management, soft-start electronics, gain flexibility, and transformer-balanced outputs with Octave’s signature tube sound, the HP 300 SE delivers both audiophile performance and real-world adaptability. It stands as a true all-rounder: refined, powerful, and capable of elevating any high-end audio system.