2. amps-preamps
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Juicy Music Blueberry vs Audio Research LS26 or ?

I have been using a Juicy Music Blueberry for about a year. Along with my Moscode 401HR, they are a hell of lot of fun to listen to.
However, the JM Blueberry adds noise to the system and it is audible at low volumes. I almost hate to blame the preamp, but I've inserted others and quiet returns. But along with quiet comes a price- the music loses some life.
So... I'm looking to replace the Blueberry with a preamp that is dead quiet, but is exciting to listen to. I use the system everyday, and my music runs the gamut, and for the most part, I can't stand "audiophile recordings". A little euphonic color is ok by me.
So... Would I be disappointed by the Audio Research LS26 given what I've said?
I'm also considering the Aesthetix Calypso, and VTL 6.5.
Any opinions greatly appreciated. Thanks
james_edward

Showing 1 response by james_edward

james_edward OP
125 posts
 
I'm running the pimped out 6H30 'DR' tubes. These are as good as it gets from what I can tell... The 6h30 tube does not have a deep NOS bench from which to choose. When I switched from the stock Sovteks to the DR version, the noise issue was about the same, but I found the DR's to be a little warmer, with no loss in detail.
I guess I'll have to be sure to get an in-home audition for whatever I choose, since I would honestly rather have the noise with beautiful music than noise-free sterility.
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