How to select and pair a preamp and power amp?


I'm considering returning to a pre/power  configuration after years of using a tube integrated amp. I will likely buy used and my budget is $5K. I have Focal Be 1038 speakers, they are efficient but do benefit from power. So what makes better sense, finding the preamp first or the power amp first. I'm at the mercy of the used market, timing might dictate the whole process. Also, any suggestions of tube/SS pairings with proven synergy?
larseand

Showing 1 response by billtro

I hear you buddy.  I have a pair of Focal 1028 be's with a prima luna dialogue premium preamp paired with a PL HP amp.  Beautiful and versatile.  Then I upgraded by adding a second HP amp.  Significant improvement (not that the single HP was in any way bad).  Then I rolled my first set of tubes in the preamp. Again, I heard a difference!  Finally, I completed my speakers by adding REL sub-woofers.  I hated turing that system off at the end of the day!

So with your 1038s, you have an incredible sound that you can go forward with in the years to come, as your budget allows in the real world.  What ever path you chose, just remember, sub-woofers!