2. amps-preamps
  3. 1201501991

budget tube preamp dilema

hey guys, i am having a hard time choosing what to buy and will have a lil tax money to buy a budget tube preamp to replace my p.o.s dynaco pat4, my problem is my only source for know is a rega p2 w/shure m97x cartridge i have a nad pp2 phono pre into the dynaco out to a b&k st202 into vandersteen 2c1 via kimber 8tc biamped w audioquest g snake interconnects ,it is sweet but i need to try a tube pre
i would love to get a rogue metis but really cant afford more than $500-600 max, i am thinking about just buying a bellari vp129 for $200 but there is no expandability,there are a lot of three input linelevel tube preamps out there but i would have to use the nad pp2, and eventually i plan on adding a tuner & cd player as money allows but can only buy 1 piece at a time (moneys tight!)
what should i do? are there any other tube preamps w/ a phonostage and 2 line inputs i should consider?
thanks in advance!
analogfreeek

Showing 2 responses by darkmoebius

darkmoebius
900 posts
 
Analogfreek,

In your price range, go with a tried and true classics like the Conrad Johnson PV10 or Counterpoint SA-3000. Both include a phono section that will probably be much better than your current NAD.

The Counterpoint can still be upgraded in steps by the original designer at Alta Vista Audio into a truly outstanding preamp. Another one to consider is the Audible Illusions Modulus 3.

All three of these have earned really strong reputations for good performance over the ears and will hold their value.
darkmoebius
900 posts
 
Here you go, Elizabeth. $600 obo and has been up for sale for a week.

I remember reading lots of posts here and on Audio Asylum raving about this preamp over the years, is it really that good?
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