2. amps-preamps
  3. 192310-195554

In need of a preamp with a prominent display

Right now my Threshold 400A is paired with Freya+, but the Schiit’s ergonomics suck. It sounds fine but my old eyes want to see prominent visuals of inputs, volume settings, and modes from across the room. So, I want exquisite sound with a “bell and whistle” that’s usually found on the basic consumer offerings. I’m almost ready to drop some larger coin on a MicroZOTL MZ3 unless anyone can suggest a less pricey option.

mushman
rooze's avatar
rooze
638 posts
 

My Don Sachs D2 pre has a big gaudy display that you can see from a mile away. Fortunately you can turn it off.

mushman OP
2 posts
 

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. A great starting point for more homework on my part. I'll soon post what I land on. One reason I was looking at the MicroZOTL is if I leave the country to go live in a warm grass shack somewhere, I can downsize the big speakers and power amps and still have a pretty good headphone amp.

mulveling's avatar
mulveling
1,913 posts
 

ARC has the best clear, big, bright numeric displays. I just love the look of a big, crisp VFD display. Monochrome in blue or green - MUCH better than LCD or OLED for this use-case, IMO.

One of my pet peeves in the space of 2ch preamps is analog volume knobs with no easily visible (from a distance) marker. 

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,763 posts
 

@mushman 

What’s your budget? 

mushman OP
2 posts
 

I think that the MicroZOTL MZ3 is the very limit of my budget. Last I looked it runs about $3700. I can do that, but if some of these other suggestions come in under that and fit my criteria, then I will choose wisely. It's a big decision.

Currently the Threshold is being refurbished at Vintage Amp Repair. When I get it back and again listen with the Freya+, then I hope to have decided on a preamp with the ergos and sound I'm looking for. Everyone has been a great help with your suggestions. I will post my results when I take the new plunge.

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