Cary SPL-05 or VTL TL 5.5 II

hk_fan,

Thanks for your opinions.  It will be difficult for me to audition them as I will probably purchase them as second hand.  I may actually go for the SLP-05.

First of all, nice system.  Secondly, I don't think you could go wrong with either of the tube preamps you're considering.

I owned the SLP-05 and it is a very special preamp IMO.  I've spent time with the VTL and it too is very good.  This is one of those instances, like most - where you need to audition both if at all possible.

I'm really splitting hairs here but I'd say the Cary leans a slight bit warmer than the VTL without being overly tubey or bloated sounding.  I think you will get a bit more of the tube magic you're looking for with the Cary than the VTL, but like I said - both are really outstanding units.