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Help me select a new remote preamp on a budget

Hey all,

So after about 6 years of home theater I've decided to blow it all up and start over with a 2-channel system. So far I've gotten a pair of Martin Logan Electromotions, a McCormack DNA-125, and a PS Audio Digital Link III to go with the VPI Scout Jr and Dynavector phono preamp that I already had.

But - to complete the switch I need a preamp. Given that my gear is currently tending to the bright and clinical side I wouldn't mind something tube or tube-like. I'd also like to keep it around or under $1k.

My other requirements are that it must have a remote, and for wife-friendlyness the remote must be able to select the input. In case I decide to do Home Theater again in the future, I'd also like it to have HT bypass.

Here are the candidates I've identified so far:
Belles Soloist 3
McCormack RLD-1
PS Audio GCP-200

Right now I'm leaning towards the McCormack (if only one would pop up on the used market) but I'm open to entertaining other options.

Thanks!
hudsonhawk
6 responses Add your response
hudsonhawk OP
137 posts
 
That PS Audio looks great and much more in my price range than the GCP.

Sadly I just realized that the BAT is too wide for my rack. Its a Sonus rack that happens to be exactly 19" wide, so fatties like the BAT stuff or the McCormack I just bought don't fit. Very limiting and annoying.
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
The PS Audio PCA2 is another option. They sell used for $6-700 and meet all your needs. This will kill the PS Audio you mention above.
hudsonhawk OP
137 posts
 
Great suggestions all.

I was just looking at a BAT and trying to decide if I (ok, if the wife) could live without the Harmony selecting the input for me... I sometimes wish I'd gotten a BAT VK-200 instead of the McCormack - an all BAT system for under $2k would be an amazing get.

I had looked at the newer Bel Canto's but the Pre 1 looks like it could be a good fit. HT bypass which is nice, and I wouldn't mind tubes.

I love the look of that AES but unfortunately I think I need 5 inputs to handle my system. I could maybe get by with 4 but no fewer.
driver's avatar
driver
750 posts
 
Well, the two I'd recommend have a remote but you can't select a source. If you can get past that, I would recommend a VTL 2.5 or a BAT 3i. They are right there in your price range & would be hard to beat. I've owned both & wouldn't have any problem putting one back in my system.
timlub
2,039 posts
 
Do you mind some older gear?
I don't know your selections but the come from reputable designers and I would think all would be at least decent.
Going back a bit, I like the
BelCanto Pre 1 or Pre 2, both are very good
Audio Research LS-9
Muse Model 3 Signature
All are single ended and balanced and include a remote and should be available in your budget.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
If you are open to tubes, the AES AE-3 made by Cary is inexpensive new and a real bargain used. Upscale Audio has them I think with remote control. Great sound especially if you take their advice on substituting the stock tubes. It is a very straight forward pre with all the magic of tubes . I think they can be had for $1200 new.
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