2. amps-preamps
  3. 146928-128569

best tube preamp to pair LM 518ia

Hi there, I have a Line Magnetic 518ia and recently bought a Sota Saphire V TT. I was wondering which would the be a good match for a tube preamplifier w phono stage of course. Also, I have an LM 502 DAC but wonder if it is worth to directly buy a preamp w built in DAC. Heard lots of good things about matching LM w Shindo, however, Shindo gear doesn’t come w remote control which I’d like to have. Thx for any advice!
branca
jburidan
803 posts
 
Why would you use a preamp with an integrated?
jperry
2,448 posts
 
Better sound plus a phono preamp. I have heard LM paired with Shindo frequently and very good results.
branca OP
2 posts
 
I was told that even though the amp has an i restated preamp, adding and external preamp will improve quality. It’s hard however reading that the built int preamp uses same tubes than many preamps out there so that’s why I get confused. My ultimate goal in some years is to end up with 2 power mono blocs (was told that is the BEST) or better power amp alone so I said to me to go for a good preamp now but WITH proper phono stage. Otherwise, would gurus recommend going for a phono stage alone and invest in a good preamp afterwards when updating power amp?
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,132 posts
 
Just remember you will still be going through the preamp stage of the 518. Sometimes less is more.

Oz
jburidan
803 posts
 
Ozzy, I'd say less is always more.
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