2. amps-preamps
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best preamps in the 4K-8K range

I'm looking for some opinions on preamps. My current system is: Ayre Cx-7 CD player, Arcam AV8 preamp, Cary 500 MB monoblocks (currently using arcam P7 preamp, but have the Carys on order), Dali euphonia MS4 speakers, Richard Gray Power. I find m current system nice, but slightly analytical, and not as 3-dimentional as I'd like. I'd also like some more musicality with a touch of warmth. I have been thinking about BAT, Cary, Herron and Pass labs preamps--some would need to be picked up used on audiogon to stay in my price range. I would certainly appreciate any thoughts on what might go well with my system from any audiogoners. Thanks
tcheathertree
dejanm
72 posts
 
I would certainly put Music First Pre-Amp on the short list. It is passive pre-amp with S&B trainnies and it sounds really good. There are two versions of it: one silver and one copper (cheaper). Both of them are really good and will outperform many much more excpencive active, SS or tube, pre-amps. You have to hear it to believe it ...
teajay
1,691 posts
 
Tcheathertree, I just posted a review on the Bent Tap passive linestage compared to the Placette Active linestage that will provide you with information on both of these wonderful pieces. Each is in your budget range, so I would recommend you put both on your audition list.
tcheathertree OP
5 posts
 
Thanks guys for the great advice. I believe it was "tvad" who put it best when he said that I was looking for a Rolls, not a ferrari. I am interested in the VAC and Joule preamps...also cj, but I am reading that their recent preamps are not really warm in character....anyone have a comment on that?
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
01-09-07: Tcheathertree
Thanks guys for the great advice. I believe it was "tvad" who put it best when he said that I was looking for a Rolls, not a ferrari. I am interested in the VAC and Joule preamps...also cj, but I am reading that their recent preamps are not really warm in character....anyone have a comment on that?

Out of curiousity, have you heard the Cary amps yet?
I ask because I think the Cary amps will take you pretty far in the direction you want to go, compared to the Arcam amp. They might even change your preamp goals.

John
zear
69 posts
 
CJ's preamps still have warmth to them. My CT6 is very satisfying, and the CT5 is the next step up and a world class product.
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