Help me find a pre-amp

Rkfaberdds,

I just finished my preamp listening journey, and I'll try to get my notes out later today......I'm not great at putting that into words, but I'll give it a go. Was a fun experience....and I've ordered my preamp.

rkfaberdds,

We are in the same boat, I am in the process of choosing a preamp as we speak, and am making my decision this week....stretching to $6,000 will bring a few really good preamps into the mix. The list I have as of this writing after adding and subtracting some options.

(1) Aric Audio Motherlode II $5,125 or Motherlode XL $6,125 - https://aricaudio.com/

(2) Backert Labs Rhumba 1.4 $5,000 or used Rhumba Extreme 1.3 $5,000ish if you can find one. I was able to find a new Rhumba Extreme 1.4 for a discounted $7,300

https://backertlabs.com/linestages-no-phono

(3) Atma-Sphere MP3 Mk 3.3 $5,650 -  http://www.atma-sphere.com/en/mp-3.html

(4) Linear Tube Audio MicorZOTL $5,750 with balanced inputs and Level 2 upgrades

(5) Audio Research Ref 5SE - Used around $6,000 if you can find a good one

Best of luck!

rkfaberdds,

So far have auditioned: Rogue RP9, Audio Research Ref 5SE, and BAT VK-80. Tomorrow I am going to audition the Backert Labs Rhumba 1.4 and the Rhumba Extreme 1.4. Auditioning has been more difficult than I thought, because of differing amps and speakers at stores. The valuable piece is that each dealer has the Rogue RP9, so I can compare each preamp to that model to get a baseline.

I also had 2 6SN7 based preamps, the Aric Audio Motherlodes, and the Don Sachs Revelation; I have since dropped the Sachs for a variety of reasons, in favor of the Aric Audio....and it will definitely be a finalist for me. Aric has been a dream to deal with, honest in his opinions, and extremely responsive. I want fully balanced design, so the Motherlode XL is what I am considering.

bgross,

I am sure that the Aesthetix is a great preamp, but I couldn't consider everything....I'm guessing there are a dozens of really good preamps, something for everyone.