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
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,405 posts
 

A Rogue RP5 has a large display.  You can see everything from across the room. Any Newer McIntosh preamp has the display you want. 

stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,405 posts
 

A Rogue RP5 has a large display.  You can see everything from across the room. Any Newer McIntosh preamp has the display you want. 

mgw
56 posts
 

I'll second the Moon by Simaudio recommendation. Lovely big displays that I can read clear across the room. They sound terrific too.

marlin38's avatar
marlin38
21 posts
 

I would also second the recommendation for Audio Research.  I had an LS27 that I sold chasing the rabbit down the BAT VK-33SE hole.  The display was nice, but there were other things about it I didn't care for, so I went with a LTA MicroZOTL Level 2 preamp, but didn't like the volume display (even at the lowest brightness it was still SO bright in a dark room) plus you couldn't see which input you were on.  Sold that and went with an Audio Research Reference 3 and I think I'm set for a while.  You can see the volume from down the block, it dims to a perfect brightness and it's easy to see which input is active too.

robshaw
249 posts
 

Benchmark LA-4 or their Headphone LA-4 equivalent. HPA-4 I believe. I own for my 2 systems, LA-4's. Made in NY, 30 day trial period, RORY is great to deal with. Reasonably priced, and delivers the goods. Check them out, very highly regarded. 

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