Best Options For A Tubed Preamp - $2500 Or Less, Preferably Used To Maximize Value


As the title says, I'm interested in your thoughts on what are the ebst options for a tube based preamp, $2500 or under. I generally buy used to maximize what I can get. Definitely prefer a warmer sound signature, but not to the degree where details and impact are lost. 

What are the best values out there, in this price range, in your opinion? Any expertise, perspectives and experience greatly appreciated. Thanks. 

nightfall

Showing 1 response by dorkwad

Audible Illusions 3A or 3B.  If you need phono,  The AI's have a great phono section.  You can also get it w/o phono.  I owned a AI 2D from 1991-2007, great sound, zero problems.  Had to replace tubes once or maybe twice.  Use AI's tubes if you want longevity from them.  After 2007, I bought a used AI 3A and it was slightly better sounding than the 2D.  Had it until I could wrangle a TRL DUDE used.  Finding a suitable phono preamp at a somewhat reasonable cost was very tough, however.  Since then, I've tried 5 different phono preamps to get records to even equal the AI's sound.  The AI's preamps have long been the Best Buy in all of audio.  That is not only preamps either.

The only drawback of them is you need to get off your butt to change the volume--no remote.  I need the exercise, no problem.  I have no remote with the DUDE either.  

Bob