2. amps-preamps
  3. 1112244182

Give me a tube preamp that looks and sound great

Just looking for a tube preamp that is quiet, has great extension and realism, and is aroung 2000 USD. I've got an Audio Research SP 16L now and want to take things a step above. I use an Odyssey Dual mono amp and Dynaudio Contour 1.3 MKII speakers. I've begun to investigate the Supratek Chardonnay and Dehavillard preamps. My styles of listening run the gamet with focus on rock, jazz, and folk. Thanks to all for you opinions. I do like the look of outboard tubes too.
canucks0

Showing 2 responses by hack

hack
185 posts
 
I had a few different ARC's and moved up to a BAT 30 preamp three years ago. I'm very satisfied with the preamp, even bought a 3i for a second system.
hack
185 posts
 
Aball,

The two preamps are (not surprisingly) similar; articulate, very slightly rolled off, and throw a wide and deep sound stage. Not terribly tube-finicky, they sound damned good even with the stock tubes BAT provides.

The 30 is more flexible, has a cool display, and really nice remote. In terms of sound qualities I find the 30 is a bit more liquid, little bit better bottom-end, all-in-all somewhat more emotionally involving than the 3i. I could happily live with the 3i, but for the extra money I'd go with a 30.

BAT components are very well designed, quality fit and finish, excellent after sales service, and most importantly very musical. I'm not affiliated with BAT in any way, bought my preamps and BAT VK500 amp used here on the 'Gon. Happy listening, Jeff (artist formerly known as jeffloistarca)
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