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Looking for Alternative Preamp to Blue Circle BC3

I've lived with a Blue Circle BC3 preamp for a while now and I have only good things to say about it. The trouble is, my wife is intimidated by the dual volume controls and after much discussion I've agreed to start exploring alternatives. I want similar performance, my wife wants a single volume control (to her credit, she appreciates the quality of the BC preamp and also wants to maintain this level of standard). What preamps should I be looking into? The Herron preamp and the Ayre preamps appear to be viable options. What else would you recommend? Thanks for your input.
nalgene8954

Showing 2 responses by gunbei

gunbei
2,327 posts
 
I own the BC21 and am very happy with it, but as Sugarbrie says, the improved power supply and new Shallco volume attenuator in the BC21.1 should be a noticable upgrade. I'm considering having those upgrades made to my BC21.
gunbei
2,327 posts
 
Exactly, as Sugarbrie said. The reason I'm staying with the BC21 and considering adding some of the BC21.1 upgrades is because I like the 6SN7 tube. I have a decent stash of NOS 6SN7s which improved the sound immensely over the stock modern tubes. Both Gilbert and Kevin Allen feel the outboard power supply and the Shallco attenuator which is the same volume control in the BC3 and AG Series will greatly improve the BC21. I'm even considering having the faceplates of my BC21 and BC22 customized to be like the purpleheart with walnut trim ones used on all AG preamps and amps.
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