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Best tube preamp for Quicksilver V4 tube mono's (newest KT150 version)

Just purchased a pair of Quicksilver V4 mono tube amps, the newest KT150 version.  Will be arriving this coming Wednesday.

http://quicksilveraudio.com/products/v4/

Single ended
Input impedance is 100 K ohms
Input sensitivity is 1.5 volts

Now need to purchase a nice preamp.  Would like to get the most 'bang for buck' by getting a very nice condition used pre-amp.

On my radar so far is:

EAR 868
Audible Illusions M3b or L3a
Herron VTSP-360

I have had 2 different AI M3a pre-amps in the past, so I am very familiar with Audible Illusions 'sound'... not sure what is the differences between the AI M3b and AI L3a, besides the M3b having  phono stage options and the L3a remote controlled volume?

No experience with Herron or EAR, but from what I have read EAR, if compatible, may be the best performing?

Suggestions greatly appreciated. 

Also would like to hear from other V4 owners.


Rick
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fjn04
1,561 posts
 
I have the VR, Vosne Romane. Funny on the timing here because I'm considering getting another QS...but either Sixty watt mono or Mono 120. This is to drive second speaker I recently purchased...Harbeth C7 w/ Ton Trager stands.Have not tried Shindo w/ Quicksilver but I have no reason to think it won't be wonderful. Great amp you just bought. 
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,880 posts
 
I would also consider a CJ especially if you stick single ended
cooperdelia
3 posts
 
I am a longtime Shindo preamp owner and lover, but have found often found that if your amp doesn’t have any gain controls, it may be difficult to get enough workable range on the volume to make the pairing workable. 
fjn04
1,561 posts
 
Excellent point. This is indeed a concern. I have heard the Monbrison and Aurieges are even tougher to match, having no transformer in the output stage. The Massetto and up the line do have one. I believe the VR and above have a smaller stepped VC, allowing for more incremental choices from low to high. My plan is to demo the Quicksilver prior to buying. Hard to wrong with CJ...I really liked the Premier 16 and Art, in that late 90's vintage. I may be off on vintage, if not early 2000's. If you're all digital, perhaps CJ. The Shindo gives you a nice phono section though. 
mesch
3,463 posts
 
I recently purchased a Aric Audio all tube preamp. It has variable gain (0-20 dB), 300ohm output impedance, 100K ohm input impedance. 
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