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 3 responses by hilde45

If you can wait for it to pop up used -- and it does -- the deHavilland Ultraverve III is in the price range and very much worth the wait.

Possibly of interest 

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/don-sachs-2-vs-dehavilland-ultraverve-3

@nightfall 

I have heard great things about the deHavilland preamp in the past. Honestly, if there were one available, I would have snatched it up before even beginning this discussion. However, a check I made at hifishark.com indicates that exactly one of these has been sold online since September of 2022. 

My search on hifi shark shows 8 in 2023 alone. Not sure what your filters are, but this is not that rare.

 and then click "expired" and sort by date.

@nightfall  Search terms can be tricky. Try searching for just dehavilland.

Anyway, you sound like you're wanting something faster than that, but for me, this is an end-game model.