I would get a used preamp. I looked at the listings on Audiogon and there are a couple of Audio Research preamps at or under your price. There is also an Aesthetix Calypso a bit over your range at $1,900. Great sounding and still current production. I used to own one, it was well built, reliable with an excellent remote volume control
Entry Level Tube Preamp or Higher Quality Used Model?
Hi All-
Overall I have great system that I’m happy with. But I recently heard a tube preamp and am smitten. There appear to be some well reviewed affordable models from Schiit Audio and Rogue, etc. that can be had for relatively short money. However for roughly the same price I can get a used piece from a traditionally higher quality brand like AudioResearch, Conrad Johnson, etc.
I’d like to stay around $1500 or less. Balanced operation would be good too. No phone pre section needed. The Schiit Freya+ Seems to be a good economical option. Are any of the new Chi-Fi brands worth a look? Does anyone have a recommendation?
thanks
glen
Overall I have great system that I’m happy with. But I recently heard a tube preamp and am smitten. There appear to be some well reviewed affordable models from Schiit Audio and Rogue, etc. that can be had for relatively short money. However for roughly the same price I can get a used piece from a traditionally higher quality brand like AudioResearch, Conrad Johnson, etc.
I’d like to stay around $1500 or less. Balanced operation would be good too. No phone pre section needed. The Schiit Freya+ Seems to be a good economical option. Are any of the new Chi-Fi brands worth a look? Does anyone have a recommendation?
thanks
glen
Showing 3 responses by jperry
If you want balanced connections and don’t need a phono preamp I recommend buying the Aesthetix Calypso. Unlike the Audio Research, and models from many other companies, the Aesthetix is and will continue to be serviced by Aexthetix. Instead of introducing a new model every year or so Aesthetix continues to improve their product and offer upgrades to current specifications if you want the upgrades. |
Thanks. I know Audio Research services almost every model. My points were the Calypso is still in current production, and Audio Research does not service every model. Audio Research may also decide they can't support the model you purchased in the future. Nothing against Audio Research. I have owned products from Aesthetix and Audio Research in the past. I don't own either currently. jperry Unlike the Audio Research, and models from many other companies, the Aesthetix is and will continue to be serviced by Aexthetix ...ARC still services almost every model it has ever made, and even offers updates for some of them. |