If you are just getting a line stage, get one that uses 6SN7s. The worst of the 6SN7s are about where the best of miniature tubes are sound-wise and it just gets better from there.
HELP!!! I need a “GOOD-CHEAP” preamp solution???
I would appreciate the community’s thoughts about replacing my NAD C356 BEE integrated amp (it’s being used as my preamp) in my modest but nice sounding 2 channel audio system. Why replace the NAD? The remote no longer talks to the amp, I’ve already replaced the large pc board ($275) and it’s running hot with a dark brown spot on the blue pc board. Scary.
Ideally, I’d like a tube preamp as I enjoy the “warmer” side of neutral. Laid back, spongy, non-fatiguing highs, meaty bass is me. Fast, accurate and transparent need not apply.
The digital source includes an older Theta Carmen cd transport to a Cary Audio dac (100 t) with a pair of vintage Mullard 6922’s in the output stage. Off to the NAD to a $400 Emotiva A300 (150w) amplifier. It’s a high gain (28db) and a bit forward/bright with my speakers. The speakers are my first pair of bookshelves. A recent move found the new man-cave just 11’ x 11’ x 9’. They are a nice pair of Focal Chorus 807 V W Prestige bookshelves. A sealed SVS SB-2000 sub fills in the blanks for the Focal bookshelves. Where’s the warm, analog tt you say? It’s coming. Zu Audio rca’s/speaker cabling with Acoustic Zen interconnects and AZ power plugs.
Now, the big question. I know there’s a ton of options out there. But, what direction to go? Need to think budget (let’s say <$1500) Does a guy gamble and go vintage tube pre or SS used??? Is buying a 90’s preamp risky? For example, a CJ/AR/PSAudio/Classe/McCormick DNA etc. What sounds good? (I know, I know) is reliable and fun to listen to. A pre that might have good synergy with the extended highs and metal tweets (Al/Mag) of the Focals???
Is there a good used, inexpensive and dependable “sleeper” of a preamp (ss or tube) that you like???
Ideally, I’d like a tube preamp as I enjoy the “warmer” side of neutral. Laid back, spongy, non-fatiguing highs, meaty bass is me. Fast, accurate and transparent need not apply.
The digital source includes an older Theta Carmen cd transport to a Cary Audio dac (100 t) with a pair of vintage Mullard 6922’s in the output stage. Off to the NAD to a $400 Emotiva A300 (150w) amplifier. It’s a high gain (28db) and a bit forward/bright with my speakers. The speakers are my first pair of bookshelves. A recent move found the new man-cave just 11’ x 11’ x 9’. They are a nice pair of Focal Chorus 807 V W Prestige bookshelves. A sealed SVS SB-2000 sub fills in the blanks for the Focal bookshelves. Where’s the warm, analog tt you say? It’s coming. Zu Audio rca’s/speaker cabling with Acoustic Zen interconnects and AZ power plugs.
Now, the big question. I know there’s a ton of options out there. But, what direction to go? Need to think budget (let’s say <$1500) Does a guy gamble and go vintage tube pre or SS used??? Is buying a 90’s preamp risky? For example, a CJ/AR/PSAudio/Classe/McCormick DNA etc. What sounds good? (I know, I know) is reliable and fun to listen to. A pre that might have good synergy with the extended highs and metal tweets (Al/Mag) of the Focals???
Is there a good used, inexpensive and dependable “sleeper” of a preamp (ss or tube) that you like???
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I have Rogue Audio RP-1 (~$1.6k) running Mullards, Wadia DAC , PSA S300, Focal 926s . I like the Rogue its been a good piece. Has a respectable phono stage. The company is good to work with as well , they answer the phone and return calls. Only knock is the plastic remote. Here is the Stereophile review https://www.stereophile.com/content/rogue-audio-rp-1-preamplifier |
I ignore the fuse in my Schiit Freya as I think magic fuse myths are utter inexplicable baloney touted by shills and wishful thinkers ( I tested some highly touted Special Fuses to see if they were better, and they not only aren't, but the ones I tested showed they're sometimes dangerously inaccurately rated). I'm not sure what sort of fuse came with the Freya, but it manages to stay out of the way of the sonics of the thing just fine. |
Unlike the cave man wolf, I have installed magic fuses in my Schitt SYS. Since it is a passive unit there was no fuse holder, so I superglued it to the side of the case. Unfortunately, geoff convinced me that it was in the wrong direction and I broke it breaking it loose with a screwdriver. However, I have now superglued both halves in the same direction, so I am fairly certain that at least one half is now directionally correct. |
wolf_garcia" I think magic fuse myths are utter inexplicable baloney touted by shills and wishful thinkers I think those who consistently, repeatedly, and seemingly endlessly prattle away that magic and myths explain the reports, experience, and findings of others are themselves consumed with legend, fiction, and voodoo make-believe and that they satisfy, comfort, and attempt to heal they're confusion, disorientation, and ignorance in a cloak of science of which they do not possess, understand, or comprehend. |
@keeferdog Add another rec for Van Alstine equipment. Frank builds three preamps; the solid state Vision as well as the tube based Transcendence 10 and FET Valve CFR. I had an earlier SS version for several years then traded up to a T10 two years ago. Great synergy paired with a Van Alstine SS amp. The sound is smooth,natural and detailed. The base price is $900 and you can add options such as a remote, their excellent phono stage and tone and balance controls. If you call with a question, Frank often answers the phone. Well worth consideration |
@maine95 After seeing all the positive recommendations for Van Alstine, I actually called yesterday and Frank answered all of my questions. We spoke about the T 10 RB pre. It has (2 preouts) that I need. As you mentioned, it can be ordered with the same phono pre he sells as a stand alone unit for $100 less if ordered installed in the preamp. Remotes are always nice too! Thanks everyone for the heads up on the many great “value” preouts on the market. |
I live about 10 miles from Van Alstine .Twice I have had problem with 2 of his pre-amps both of which were MY Fault! .Went to Frank , he himself fixed them both within an hour whilst I listened to his system . Total cost was zero ! As he says himself , "I don’t know everything but what I do know, I know well". |
@schubert When I called Frank yesterday, he definitely had his stereo volume up and enjoying some type of guitar tune. It’s what you do when it’s -20 out in the dead of winter. I should know, I just moved from Marquette, Mi (I’ve never been happier) and “you guys” can have those long, cold winters. So, how do you like those two preamps you own? Love to hear your thoughts and impressions. Thanks |
Well , the two pre- amps were a few years apart, I own only the Vision version at present .The Vision has things I want in a pre . 1 A gain switch 2. A balance knob. IMO every pre-amp should have one to help with your room problems . 3, Six inputs , for two TT’s at a time and tuner in my case . Along with the optional phono pre-amp this allows me to control any cartridge in my system , I’m a vinyl guy with 3 TT’s with 6 different carts in 6 head shells for my DD . I have the remote but wouldn’t cry if I didn’t .I want tubes some place in my system so I run the Vision SS with my tube amp , works better for me to not have an all SS or all tube system . The overwhelming character of the Vision is typical AVA clarity and neutrality. And that’s what I want in the classical and jazz music that is 95 % of my listening .It runs all class A . The TB may be better for you to get a bit of warmth .You can get clarity in a 2 tube pre but will cost you about at least $200 in new tubes IF you are lucky . It’s fun to play with tubes but good ones cost .The TB may have the typical clarity of Van Alstine in the SS version over the tube TB. Never heard them , can’t say -for most not a problem either way.If it might be for you just ask Frank . . |
For around $1,500 .. Linear Tube Audio.. The Microzotl preamp is getting some extremely good reviews, by people who are used to much more expensive equipment.. Very Highly Recommend.. https://www.lineartubeaudio.com/products/mz2mz2-s I’m using a, Decware (CSP3) preamp/headphone amp.. The only complaint with my preamp is no remote control for volume.. But rolling tubes can be useful while trying to match to your equipment and taste.. I bought the CSP3 to use with my ZMF headphones , recommend by Zach of ZMF headphones.. I was hoping that the CPS3 would be high enough quality to replace my Odyssey Candela .. I placed the CSP3 into my system feeding my 2 channel Odyssey Extreem +++ SS amp..!! It sounded so good that , I sold the Candela, and bought a Decware amp as well.. http://www.decware.com/newsite/CSP3.html |
If you can live with noise coming from your volume control, buy the Schiit. I returned mine in the trial period and had a negative experience so I am "off" the Schiit forever now. You been given several great options in the used category: Odyssey, Van Alstine are known as being very musical and well built. I bought a rebuilt by the factory Audible Illusions. Love it. Good luck!! |
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