2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a pre-amp (Pass, ARC, BAT, Sim, PS Audio)

Hello,

I would like some recommendations regarding what preamp to try in my system where I currently have a PS Audio DSD, Pass x250.8 and a pair of Focal Diva Utopias with all synergistic research interconnects. Just sold a PS Audio BHK preamp which was pretty nice, but would like something a bit faster without compromising the stage of the BHK. By-the-way, it was noticeably better having the BHK in the system then not having the preamp at all.

I am considering the ARC 5, 5SE, LS28, or the BAT VK42SE, 52SE, 33SE, or the Simadio P7, P8 Or Pass XP20, 22 next. I don’t see my-self zeroing in on any other brand/models right now.  I listen all all kind of music on Vinyl, CDs and stream Tidal.

Would you mind sharing your personal experiences with any of the above preamps (especially to contrast and compare these models/brands together). Would really appreciate any advise on which of the above preamps to go for. Thank you!
Ag insider logo xs@2xjmarshak

Showing 3 responses by atmasphere

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,615 posts
 
@jmarshak

Internally balanced has nothing to do with it. You can have the circuit be internally single-ended and still support the balanced standard. In such cases transformers are used.

An example of what I'm talking about- if the source puts any signal return currents through the shield (IOW if the shield is important to make the connection) then the equipment does not support the standard. In a proper balanced connection, the shield is for shielding only with no other relationship to the audio signal, quite unlike a single-ended connection!
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,615 posts
 
@jmarshak

If you are looking for balanced line you might inquire with the manufacturers of the preamps on your list if the product supports the balanced line standard, otherwise known as AES48 (Audio Engineering Society file 48).
If the preamp does a side benefit will be that the interconnect cable between the preamp and amp won't play a role in the system sound and you will be able to run it some very long distances if needed.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,615 posts
 
I run all balanced in my system. I find it to usually sound better (in my system) to SE, even at short wire runs. At the least with XLR, I usually do not need to increase the volume as high :) But seriously, I realize that most tube equipment is SE. I guess that’s one of the reasons why BAT and ACR are on my short list.
@jmarshak,
If you are running balanced, Atma-Sphere might be a possibility. The MP-3 comes with dual balanced outputs. Atma-Sphere made the first balanced line preamps tube or solid state (1989). Driving 10K or less is no problem so any solid state amp with a balanced input will work.

Disclaimer in case its not obvious- I am associated with Atma-Sphere.
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