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Best Used Tube Based Preamp $2k Or Under?

As the title says, I am pondering my best options for purchasing a tube based preamp for $2k or under. Must have a remote! 

 

Your opinions, thoughts, and expertise would be greatly appreciated. If I was spending more, I would know most of the best choices, but I'm on unfamiliar ground at this price limit. But sometimes, you can only do what you can do. 

Thanks for any help. 

nightfall
helomech
1,737 posts
 

Quicksilver

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,439 posts
 

@nightfall Lab 12 comes from Greece. It’s relatively new here. The other boutique choices have questionable presence when it comes to support. Sonics are questionable as well. In both cases you should have a plan for a scenario when you end up with a tubed paperweight. If you don’t mind it then go for the boutique stuff. 
Otherwise I would stick with Rogue, Audio Research, CJ.
That Rogue RP5 on USAM for $1450 is a tremendous value. I would snatch it if I were you.
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650151505-rogue-rp-5/

durkn
73 posts
 

@bunkertoy

They are both large knob older versions.

I never compared the 2.5i.

If I ever had to replace my TL-5.5 I would get another one or a VAC.

 

bunkertoy's avatar
bunkertoy
68 posts
 

@durkn VAC is an endgame Preamp for sure. My dream stereo I would own a VAC. Way out of my league.

galvy
1 posts
 

A really great sounding and quite cost-effective choice would be a used Linear Tube Audio MZ2 preamp/headphone amp (also a 1 watt amp as well).  Uses two 6SN7s (or 12SN7s) and two 12au7s or 12AT7s.  Would cost $1,00 to $1200 with remote volume.  Might be able to find a used MZ3 for $2,000.

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