Best Line Stage


What in your experience is the best line stage tube pre-amplifier you have had an opportunity to listen to in the $2,000 - $3,000 thousand-dollar range (used prices)? If you have the time, please explain what you value most (detail, tonality, sound staging, dynamics etc), as this will give everyone some insight into the performance of your choice for best pre-amp.
bioman

Showing 1 response by rcprince

I'd add the Lamm LL2 Deluxe to the list. It soundstages very well, particularly with its layering of images, has a pretty neutral tonal balance, plenty of dynamic punch and a naturalness to its presentation like the real thing. Its only flaws in my system were slightly rich bass reproduction (actually pleasant to listen to) and a slight forward quality in the treble, so some instruments like triangles could jump out a little from where they should have been in the orchestra. Overall, a very balanced design that does everything very well. In addition, while I haven't heard it in a long time, the Jadis JPL should probably be on the list, particularly if you like a little tube richness and body in your presentation. Jadis equipment, while perhaps not the most neutral, is among the most natural and realistic sounding, particularly for classical and acoustic music (less so for rock and electronic music).