Looking at these specific preamps give me your opinions
I'm building a system and I have an SMC Audio DNA.5 power amp that was built about a year ago so it's up to date on technology although it is still single ended. I have NX-otica and OB subwoofers from GR Research. I am looking for a good preamp. I have a few in mind and would like some opinions. I have listed them below.
TLC-2 GT24 built by SMC Audio
VRE-1c made by SMC Audio
Revelation Raven tube preamp by Spatial Audio
LTA tube preamp
The TLC-2 and Revelation would need to be purchased new the others I might catch them online used.
Of the preamps listed, I can comment on the LTA microZOTL, as I have this in my system. I think it is a spectacular preamp. Not warm sounding, but very natural. Excellent dynamics and very open sounding. I run it with a Pass amp and could not be more pleased. I also just rolled in some new tubes to replace the stock tubes it comes with. I thought it sounded good before, but it was next level afterwards. Better top to bottom extension, more organic. A real winner for my system. |
@gregjacob I replaced the 12AT7s with Telefunken ECC801s. I replaced the 12SN7s with CBS/Hytron VT-231 per a recommendation from Brent Jessee. If you use 6SN7s as a replacement, you just have to slide the internal switch in the pre to 6V. The tubes were not inexpensive, but well worth it in my opinion. The difference to me was amazing. |
