2. amps-preamps
  3. 1134395025

BEST BALANCED XLR TUBE PREAMP FOR JC-1 MONOS?

Hello all,
I am wanting to experiment with tube preamps for my JC-1 monoblock amps.
Here are my requirements:
1. MUST have balanced XLR outputs.
2. Remote control preferred.
3. Would like a headphone jack.
4. Would prefer Class A, dual-mono, all discrete circuitry.
5. Must match up extremely well and have exceptional synergy with the JC-1's.
I want it to retain ALL the sound qualities of solid state preamps such as top-end extension, detail, transparency, dynamics, speed, bass power and extension, etc., while adding the dimensionality, staging, and "air" of tubes.
I do not want one that is the least bit rolled off on top, laid-back, too euphonic, warm, or rolled off or spongy in the bass.
Some balanced tube preamps I have heard some good things about are the Aesthetix Calypso, ARC LS25 MK.II, Sonic Frontiers, etc.
I want to hear from people with first hand experience only.
Thanks for all your help and answers, everyone!
Angela
audio_girl

Showing 1 response by driver

driver's avatar
driver
750 posts
 
I have an Atma-sphere MP-3 w/phono that is fully differentially balanced & will do all the sonic things you're looking for, although no remote or headphone jack.

I'm running w/Ayre V-1xe & it's a great match-up. I was thinking about the K-1xe from a synergy standpoint, so if you'd like to swap preamps for testing purposes, let me know.
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