2. amps-preamps
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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 4 responses by mrjstark

mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
I will second Butler recommendations, very nice amp. I am not the biggest fan of SS gear but I can see myself useing something like Butler or WFS amps. Preamps.....? I like Supratek, Blueberry, Dodd. Going all AR is another way to do it but I believe there are better fish in the Sea. IMO.
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
Rick,
In my opinion Blueberry is not just good , it is an excellent preamp for the asking price. It also comes in premium wood finish which looks great and adds to the overall enjoyment. Its sound is very rich, especially with Mullard tube. Its presentation is different then lets say Modwright preamp which is very clean, fast, transparent but
also.....almost SS-ish. More relaxed, smooth and a bit on the warmer side characteristics of Blueberry with SS amp might be a better choice IMO.

Butler is a power house with almost limitless dynamics and headroom. It doesn't sound edgy or vailed. It is a very well balanced amp that I can personaly recommend. There are otheres but not in your price range.

Mariusz
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
Rickk
Do not get me wrong....McCormack is an excellent amp..so is Butler. And no, Butler does not sound like true tube amp. However it is very well balanced, dynamic and not veiled or edgy like some poorly designed SS amps out there. I am not sure if the tube input stage in Butler helps in that regards or not. My guess is that it is somewhat responsible for its subtle (but with power and authority) rendition of music.

Blueberry is more liquid and warm sounding preamp then most modern tube designs. Pairing it with SS amp will give you the best of both Worlds. Power, dynamics of SS and richness of tube design.

IMO you can not go wrong with this approach of incorporating both designs to get the most out of your speakers.
You won't regret your decision. If you will.....you can always blame me..... :)

Cheers

Mariusz
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
I like Parasound Halo myself. Excellent SS amp for the money.
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