Oracle Audio PH100 MkIII Phono Preamplifier

The Oracle Audio PH100 MkIII is a moving magnet and moving coil phono preamplifier that uses the same analog modules and RIAA circuitry as Oracle's own PH200 MkIII. Six load settings from 100 ohms to 47k and three gain levels from 41.5dB to 62dB, set with internal jumpers, match it to cartridges from 0.35mV up.

The PH100 MkIII is the more accessible of Oracle's two Paris-series phono stages, built in the same frame as the PH200 and designed and made by Oracle in Sherbrooke, Quebec. It competes with phono stages such as the Sutherland Insight and Graham Slee Reflex. We recommend it to customers building their first serious vinyl system and to anyone stepping up from an entry-level phono stage.

"Our goal with the Paris series is to answer a historical demand from the public for more accessible, high quality components from Oracle Audio."

Key Features of the Oracle Audio PH100 MkIII

• MM and MC Compatibility: Oracle designed it to accommodate any moving magnet or moving coil phono cartridge
• Shared Circuitry With the PH200: The same analog modules and RIAA circuitry as Oracle's PH200
• Six Load Settings: 100, 200, 511, 1k and 1.5k ohms for moving coils, plus the standard 47k ohms for moving magnets
• Three Gain Levels: 41.5dB, 52dB or 62dB, with moving magnets set at 41.5dB into 47k ohms
• Jumper Configuration: Gain and load are set with internal jumpers, applied identically to both channels
• RIAA Accuracy: The RIAA circuit follows the true RIAA standard to within +/- 1dB
• Low Distortion and Noise: THD below 0.05% from 20Hz to 20kHz and a signal to noise ratio better than -80dB
• Two Finishes: Textured matte black, or textured matte black with a brushed aluminum front panel
• Two-Year Warranty: Transferable parts and labor limited warranty from Oracle

Which Cartridges Work With the PH100 MkIII?

Moving magnets and moving coils from 0.35mV up. Moving magnets run at 41.5dB into 47k ohms with a fixed 150pF. Moving coils choose 41.5dB, 52dB or 62dB of gain and a load of 100, 200, 511, 1k or 1.5k ohms, with no added capacitance on those settings.

Oracle's manual ties the gain to your cartridge's output. For a low output moving coil under 1.0mV it suggests 62dB. Between 1.0mV and 3.0mV, 52dB. Above 3.0mV, 41.5dB, the same setting moving magnets use. Oracle's rule of thumb is to use the lowest gain that still gives a comfortable listening volume, which keeps the stage clear of overload and the distortion that comes with it. For the load, pick the setting closest to your cartridge maker's recommendation. The PH100 MkIII leaves the factory at 41.5dB with a 1k ohm load.

How Do You Set Gain and Loading on the PH100 MkIII?

With internal jumpers, following the diagram in Oracle's manual. Positions R1 to R5 select the moving coil loads, R6 is the 47k moving magnet load, and R7, R8 and R9 set 41.5dB, 52dB and 62dB. Set the right channel as shown, then apply the identical setting to the left.

Oracle is firm on one point: turn the PH100 off, and preferably unplug it from the wall, before changing any setting. Switching the amplifier off, or selecting a different input, is a sensible extra precaution. For a moving magnet cartridge, no jumpers go on R1 to R5.

How Is the PH100 MkIII Powered?

From Oracle's power supply circuit inside the main chassis, fed by an outboard AC adaptor. The adaptor takes 120 or 230 VAC, delivers 14 VAC at 840mA (11.76 watts), carries its own power switch and IEC inlet, and is made in Canada. Oracle says enormous care went into the PH100's power supply circuit.

Oracle credits that circuit with much of the PH100's performance and musicality. It is also the main place the PH100 MkIII parts ways with the PH200, which adds a signal regulation step just before the RIAA circuit input and a highly regulated and filtered external power supply. Like any phono stage, the PH100 is sensitive to its electromagnetic surroundings, so Oracle advises keeping it as far as possible from your preamplifier and other high voltage equipment or wiring to avoid hum.

How Do You Connect the PH100 MkIII?

Tonearm leads go to the RCA inputs, the RCA outputs go to a line-level (auxiliary) input, and the turntable's ground lead goes to the knurled post between them. Oracle says never to use a phono input on your amplifier or preamplifier, and interconnect cables are not included.

There is one pair of RCA inputs and one pair of RCA outputs. Oracle recommends a power-up ritual that avoids thumps through the speakers: switch on the phono preamplifier first and the preamplifier section a moment later, then power down in reverse, finishing with the phono stage. Give it a well ventilated spot on the rack.

Two Finishes, One Chassis

The PH100 MkIII measures 9.5 x 12.25 x 2.25 inches and uses the same frame as the PH200, carrying the design of Oracle's Paris series. Choose textured matte black, or textured matte black with a brushed aluminum front panel. Both finishes are the same phono stage inside.

Oracle backs the PH100 with a transferable two-year parts and labor limited warranty. Keep the bill of sale from your authorized dealer; without it, Oracle dates coverage from the serial number at two years and six months from the day the unit left the factory.

The Listening Room Difference

We're a third-generation family business with a brick-and-mortar showroom in Chestertown, Maryland, and a reputation built on exceptional service and relentless passion for hifi. Whether you're visiting in person or ordering online, we bring decades of experience, personalized service, and honest guidance to every interaction. We don't just ship boxes. We help build systems, answer your questions like real humans, and make sure every detail of your setup is right, from the cables to the final connection. Our passion is helping you get the most out of your gear, with support that lasts well beyond the sale.

Oracle Audio PH100 MkIII Specifications