High Output Preamp for First Watt SIT-3?


I'm new to the audiophile world and recently purchased a First Watt SIT-3 with Magnepan .7s.  I have a Mytek Brooklyn Bridge for streaming, though I prefer to play vinyl with my Mofi Ultradeck.  The Mytek serves as the phono stage (69dB gain for MM?), and I don't use a preamp;  the Brooklyn is connected directly to the First Watt. 

I understand that the SIT-3 is only 11.5 dB of gain, and that's extremely low compared to most amps.  I like most everything about the system except for the fact that I have the Mytek maxed out volume-wise many days.  Certain LPs are cut quieter, and I wish I had more power.  There are times streaming where the Maggies aren't getting to their sweet spot.  I realize the Maggies are a lower sensitivity speaker. 

What should I look for in a preamp to fully drive the SIT-3?  Eventually, I'd like to replace the phono stage instead of relying on the Brooklyn.  Is there a tube preamp featuring a phono stage with sufficient output to drive my amp in the $4k range?  Otherwise, I'm eyeing the Modwright PH 9.0 and a linestage preamp, realizing that this will probably be costlier.  I'm looking for a warm sound, not analytical but engaging. 

Any help is greatly appreciated.  I'm a working musician with a basic understanding of related electronics but little experience in this world. 

murphbass

Showing 3 responses by mikem

@charles1dad , Will do !  looking forward to breaking it in and hearing what all the fuss is about... !
Have a good weekend !
@charles1dad , The SIT3 improves with a lower ohm load, according to Nelson pass. using a 16ohm speaker, He suggests using a 4 ohm resistor across the terminals leads.
Its a different animal than most amps..
the SIT3 only requires 3V to full output/clipping. most digital sources exceed that alone. It’s a low gain amp and low power, but should be able to be driven by most anything. I have a SIT3 on its way and will be pairing it with the PASS XP12.
I am currently using the XA25 with it. Was told I just need to turn it up higher than most other amps, yet it will still be all attenuation as I’m coming off a DAC in balanced mode, 6V