2. amps-preamps
  3. 1073489977

Alana line stage by Gill Audio Design

I am looking for feedback. This piece is actually manufactured and distributed by Art Audio USA. It does seem like an intelligent albeit minimalist approach to design for those of us who don't need or want to pay for the features of a Rowland (for whom I have the highest regard) for example: Class A triode with only 3 inputs and a remote control (no tape monitor capability or balance control) for gain and input selection. It is my understanding that it can be ordered with either single ended or balanced connections and low/high gain versions. I am also considering Supratek's Cortese or First Sound Presence Deluxe. The system is Avalon, Accuphase and Nordost and looking at a tube design to complement solid state amplification.
128x128linkster
cello
645 posts
 
This fall, I replaced my Sim Audio Moon P-5 SS pre-amp with a Supratek Cortese and have been absolutely thrilled. I started rolling some of the tubes just this weekend and was amazed that a sound that had become so wonderful after the addition of the Cortese could jump again in such a quantum leap.

I am running an Electrocompaniet EMC-1UP CDP into the Cortese and then into a Mark Levinson 23.5 amp (200 watts per channel) with Sonus Faber Extrema speakers. The Cortese added a great deal more of detail, warmth, liquidity, a wider and deeper sound stage while bringing more focus to the base.

I have not heard the Alana line stage and cannot draw any comparisons for you. You might want to (if you have not already) dive into the " Pre-amp deal of the century ", read through it and post some of your questions to some of the extremely knowledgeable people that frequent that post.

One other note; Mick Maloney of Supratek, recently announced that he has just significantly upgraded the Cortese model. All of the superlatives & reviews you hear about the Cortese came prior to this recent upgrade. I cannot imagine how heavenly the sound must now be considering how great the Cortese was already. The Cortese has made it extremely hard to stand up, walk away and stop listening to music.

Please feel free to email me with any questions or comments
davidcgill
1 posts
 
Thanks for your interest in the Alana pre-amp. My intent was as you stated, straight forward. There are plenty of pre-amps with complex remotes, displays, switching, etc. My focus was on the power supply, circuit, and construction. It does have an optional, but rarely ordered tape loop switch and can be ordered with balance output. If you have any specific questions, let me know.

David Gill
More to discover