2. amps-preamps
  3. 1214922174

Amp/preamp suggestions in $3000-4000 range

Hi all,

I'm ready to upgrade my system and I'm going to start with the amp and preamp. I need suggestions.

My system is comprised of Kenwood L-07D and Oracle Alexandria turntables with Dynavector 10x5 and Benz Micro Glider cartridges, respectively, into a Unison Research Unico. The speakers are Vandersteen 2ce. I listen to a wide range of music from jazz and modern composition to beat up punk rock 45s, and everything in between.

I've had solid state amps most of my life and have tried some of the more humble all tube systems such as Antique Sound Labs and Jolida. I really love the sound of the Unico's hybrid design but it's not a great amp for the Vandersteens. Beyond that, I haven't much of an idea where to go. I prefer the idea of tube preamp and solid state amp but I'm not hell bent on it. I am open to an integrated machine or separate preamp and amp. Monoblocks are interesting as well. I'd like to keep the total price somewhere between 3-4K on the used market.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,

Rickk
rickk

Showing 1 response by jb0194

jb0194
476 posts
 
Consider a fully tricked out Ella (level three) with autobias option to eliminate the maintenance task of output tube biasing, and inquire if they will assemble the autoformer volume control (option 4b). I'll bet they will, as they offer assembly of the Ella.

www.diyhifisupply.com/diyhs_ella.htm

They'll fall well within your budget and will be new units.

I've owned the basic Ella (my brother has it now) and it is a very nice amp that will surely shine with the premium parts. I also owned the Django passive and kick myself for selling it. I had DIY HiFi build my Django and the assembly was first rate. The new autoformer volume control may even better the Django, as some contend that autoformers are better suited than transformers for passive volume control.

Brian Cherry of DIY HiFi is all about sound quality and value without any fluff. If that's what you're after, look no further.
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