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EAR vs Audio Note preamp

Friends,
I am contemplating getting a preamp with in-built high quality phono stage. I have shortlisted EAR 868/912 or Audio Note M3/M5 phono. I plan to buy pre-owned so I am flexible about the models. The power amp that will be driven will be a Nelson Pass First Watt F6 initially and slowly I may get into the SET domain. Can someone tell me about the sonic difference between EAR and Audio Note preamps ? I value speed, dynamics and purity of tone. I am neither for artificial warmth or artificial clarity. 



pani

Showing 5 responses by pani

pani OP
1,236 posts
 
No one has heard either EAR or Audio Note or both ? Both of them are suppose to have a cult following. I have heard AN and really like it but it is an expensive brand to get into so I am also looking at EAR products (especially the preamp) but I have not heard any of their products.
pani OP
1,236 posts
 
I personally also favour Audio Note over EAR as a line stage. But when it comes to the internal phono stage I am not sure. EAR phono stages are well known and the 868/912 both carry the EAR's top phono implementation. By contrast the phono stage inside M5 phono would at best be their mid level implementation. Has anyone used Audio Note phono stages to give me some idea about their level of performances ?
pani OP
1,236 posts
 
My target preamp has changed a bit. I am still considering Audio Note M5 strongly but after a recent audition of some Audio Research gears I am also considering the ARC Ref 5 SE preamp. Audio Note vs Audio Research, M5 vs Ref 5 SE !!The amp that will be driven will most probably be a First Watt F6 so it is not a deciding factor as I see it. Anyone here with experience with both Audio Note and Audio Research preamp, please chime in.
pani OP
1,236 posts
 
Ralph, if I go with ARC then I will get their Ref phono 2 too, it all still comes down to well within $15k (used) which is affordable
pani OP
1,236 posts
 
Unfortunately in the region I stay (Singapore) Atma-Sphere has very little presence. No dealers here, hardly anyone has any experience to share. So, it is a total shot in the blind for me. Else I would love to try a OTL tube preamp
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