2. amps-preamps
  3. 1213518946

Is there a killer preamp for 1500?

I'm looking for the best preamp I can get for $1500 or less. I like tubes, but will consider SS if there's a compelling reason. I've been using passive preamps for the past year and really appreciate their transparency, openness and silence. I'm looking for similar qualities in your recommendation.

More than likely, I'll be buying used. Phono stage is unnecessary. Remote volume would be nice, but it's not a deal breaker. Amps are Antique Sound Lab AQ1008. Input impedance 100k. Input sensitivity 1v. Speakers are Alon Model V.

Any thoughts on the usual suspects?

Modwright
AI Mod3A
Rogue 99
VTL 5.5
BAT VK-3I

Thanks for your help!
mingles

Showing 2 responses by steveaudio

steveaudio
331 posts
 
I've heard the VTL 5.5 is excellent. I had the 2.5 TL, very nice for the $$, but not a "killer preamp". So if the 5.5 is better.....

I strongly urge you to add Cary pre-amps to your list. I have a Cary SLP-98 & love it. I doubt there is anything "better" at the used price range.

Oh, & a CJ-PF-R preamp is very hard to beat at around $1k used, I think, if you're open to SS.
steveaudio
331 posts
 
"The Cary SLP-98 interests me quite a bit", you say.

Well, you've had 2 or 3 recommendations for that one (one was mine). That's how I ended up with my SLP-98--considering every used preamp under $2500; VTL, ARC, C-J, etc, but when I posted about my search, I'd always get a few recommendations for the SLP-98.

One other nice thing about it--it's gorgeous. I have the black with the Jaguar Red chassis. I got real interested in Cary after buying a 303-200 CDP; another great looking/sounding component.
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