2. amps-preamps
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$18k Tube preamp for large scale symphonies please

hi, can anyone suggest tube preamp that's good for handling complex music & large scale symphonies recordings in studio/ theatres? i had audition some: Aesthetix, CJ ,Modwright, Audio Note, ARC but all seems lacking in some ways and definitely not enough air at top octaves and instruments separation/ spaciousness. all dealer agrees that some pre is good at certain genre of music and sound Great even more if music is relatively SIMPLE like vocal, jazz, light acoustic, slow rock and maybe pop songs. Yes i know personal taste varies as well: bass strength & high freq. extension etc. & gears matching too. could anyone share their expreience so i can narrow down a list? my music typically: Van Hellsing & Princess Mononoke movie soundtrack. hope dealers provide constructive comments. Thanks All in advance. -phil
philipwu

Showing 2 responses by topoxforddoc

topoxforddoc's avatar
topoxforddoc
353 posts
 
Have a look at TRON (www.tron-electric.co.uk) distributed by Jaff Catalano at Highwater Sound, NYC. TRON is a boutique British amplifier manufacturer using only the highest quality components (many custom made) with ultra short signal paths for a valve amplifier. Do you need just a line stage or phono too within your budget? Each unit is built by the designer, Graham Tricker, himself. They are built to order, so expect to wait a couple of months. Each amplifier is bespoke, so you can request upgrades or specific tweaks to match your system. GT is happy to talk to potential customers, so that he can build something to suit your system (eg matching preamp gain etc).
The Highwater Sound room often wins accolades at shows like RMAF.
topoxforddoc's avatar
topoxforddoc
353 posts
 
Philip,
It’s really hard to make any specific rankings. As Whart says, synergy with your power amp and speakers is important. All too often people forget that preamplifiers and power amps need matching especially in terms of gain. Also knowing the efficiency of your speakers helps too. If they are high efficiency, be aware that circuit noise and gain issues can be a real bug bear. That’s why I suggested the TRON. Not only do they sound really good, they are made to order. Hence you will be able to get a preamplifier made to suit the rest of your equipment. That’s important if you’re going to drop 18k!
Good luck.
Charlie
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