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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 2 responses by jmcgrogan2

jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Hi Angela,

I'd recommend the BAT VK-51SE, does everything on your list except the headphone jack. If the headphone jack is that important, than the Sonic Frontiers Line 3SE. Not as transparent or dynamic as the BAT, but a close second.

Regards,
John
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Hey Angela,

It seems like there are many varied responses. If I may ask, why do you want a 'tubed' preamp? As a some have stated, your Ayre is as good as it gets on the SS end of the line.
If the Ayre 'floats your boat', you need look no further.

If you want the dynamics and power of SS, but with some 'tube bloom' in the mid's, and headphone jack is not a big deal, then again I think that the BAT VK-51SE is what you're looking (listening) for.
I'm not a schill, but the BAT gear is really fantastic. You owe it to yourself to at least give it a listen.

Cheers,
John
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