I had the distinct pleasure of reviewing Octave’s Jubilee stack last summer, a mighty yet delicate pre/power combo that included the Jubilee Preamplifer.
As you may know, Octave introduced the Jubilee preamp 25 years ago (which is equal to 250 human years) and while it saw a number of upgrades over the decades, the company has “improved what truly matters” with the new SE version.
As you can read in more detail in the press release below, the SE version brings a number of changes most happening inside including redesigned XLR input transformers offering improved compatibility with source components, lower distortion and increased bandwidth, circuit optimization that delivers a 3 dB improvement in signal-to-noise ratio over the previous model, a new mono function, and a “new internal setting allows for bandwidth adjustment of the tube gain stage for optimal matching to a wider array of power amplifiers and loudspeakers, ensuring stability and consistency across diverse system architectures.”
The Jubilee Pre SE retains its beefy two-chassis design, available in black or silver, separating preamp and power supply as well as the ability to change the front panels to taste. Nice.
The new Octave Audio Jubilee Preamp SE is available now at select dealers for $48,000.
Here’s the press release:
OCTAVE Audio Introduces the Jubilee Preamp SE
Karlsbad, Germany – 31 March 2026
Introducing the Second Edition (SE), of the flagship Jubilee preamplifier
For over 25 years, the Jubilee Preamp has been a benchmark line stage in high-end audio for those in the know. Prized for its musicality, precision, and exceptional sonic reliability, Jubilee Preamp also set a standard for its luxurious feel and seamless marriage of technologies that has informed and elevated the technical design and aesthetics of all Octave products. With the introduction of Jubilee Preamp SE, Octave takes the next step in this tradition.
Refinement where it counts.
The new Jubilee Preamp SE is based on more than 20 years of development. This is to say the first Jubilee Preamp underwent various changes and refinements over its decades of production; with the new SE, Octave has not essentially changed what makes the Jubilee what it is, rather improved what truly matters.
Redesigned XLR input transformers were developed for the input stage, tailored to the requirements of modern DACs and sources. Offering enough headroom to support source component output levels up to 8V RMS, and with a significantly higher input impedance of 80kOhms, the SE integrates seamlessly and more universally into a wider range of systems than its predecessor. With extremely low distortion of less than 0.005% and a bandwidth of 5Hz to 150kHz, the XLR inputs boast unprecedented tonal neutrality. The result is greater clarity, and a more stable signal feeding the proprietary Octave tube gain stage.
Less noise, more clarity.
Comprehensive optimizations throughout the Jubilee circuit led to measurable and audible improvements. Jubilee SE boasts a signal-to-noise ratio that is 3 dB better than its predecessor, yielding enhancements in perceived quietness and spaciousness. What emerges is not a different sound, but a more natural one. More ease, more separation, more depth.
Reference in ambition. Flexible in application.
The Jubilee Preamp SE is designed as a true reference device. At the same time, it offers the flexibility to integrate seamlessly into a variety of high-performance systems. The Home Theater bypass function with Unity/0dB gain is now standard, enabling integration in multi-channel or theater setups. A new mono function switch joins the phase invert setting to provide precise control where it matters most. A new internal setting allows for bandwidth adjustment of the tube gain stage for optimal matching to a wider array of power amplifiers and loudspeakers, ensuring stability and consistency across diverse system architectures.
Attention to detail. Consistent Evolution.
Every detail has been carefully considered. Inputs were re-labelled to be more universal. The HIGH and LOW gain settings were modified to better match modern sources. A discreet LED indicator was added to the volume control to provide clear visual feedback, while newly designed feet enhance mechanical decoupling and stability. As always, every refinement serves the same purpose: to improve the user experience while preserving the integrity of the music.
The Jubilee Preamp SE is not a departure from the past. It is the logical continuation of a benchmark. Designed and manufactured in Germany. Refined over decades. Engineered without compromise in an unwavering pursuit of perfection.
North American MSRP is $48,000 (USD). Jubilee Preamp SE is available at select Octave Dealers now.
North American Importer: Dynaudio North America, Inc.
Company Website: Octave Audio