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Looking for preamp reccomendations

Hi, I'm pretty new here but getting excited by my soon to be new system.

TT: Technics SL1210mk2 w/KAB fluid damper, RCA/ground kit
Cart: Ortofon 2M Blue
Streamer: Node 2i
Pre: TBD
Power: MC7270
Speakers: Ohm Super Walsh 4.4012 w/ active subwoofers (on order)

Preamp Requirements:
Phono stage (preferably tube)
Remote
Extra set of line/RCA outs for the sub connections

Budget: $1-$2k

What I like:
Very broad range of music; folk, blues, punk, hip-hop, country
A ~romantic~ soundstage
Something that I can live with for a few years
Something nice to look at, ARC and McIntosh and the like

If the remote option isn't feasible at this price range that is the only requirement I could realistically go without.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and opinions, I've found these forums to be a great deal of help so far.

Thanks
z
zdw11
10 responses Add your response
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
no remote, but ticks all other boxes

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa50f5-conrad-johnson-pv-12-with-phono-preamp-tube

excellent sounding solid state unit

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa4j9g-belles-power-modules-aria-preamp-in-black-like-new-solid-state

no affiliation
zdw11 OP
6 posts
 
Nice, I’ve been looking at that CJ quite a bit but am hung up on the lack of remote. 
The Aria is interesting as well. 
Thanks for the recommendations!
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
Here’s a question rather than a suggestion.
You list:

Phono stage (preferably tube)
Remote

I wound up with a Preamp without a remote. Everyone here, my dealer, and the maker agreed that simpler was better. It was also $500 cheaper and I still control volume on my streamer, anyway.

There are some very good separate phono stages out there.

In other words, the question becomes (for you or everyone): why not separates?
zdw11 OP
6 posts
 
In other words, the question becomes (for you or everyone): why not separates?

Ultimately, just looking for a more streamlined system with less things to turn on and have wired/plugged in. Also, not sure if spreading out the $2k for a pre and phono is going to be the right move for me.

I've considered it and come to the conclusion that less is more/I don't know enough to make an informed purchase.

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
you narrow the field alot when you say tube pre WITH PHONO STAGE WITH REMOTE for 2 grand

suggestion - unless you are absolutely whetted to the mcintosh tube amp - it would be much smarter to get a nice tube (or good sounding ss) integrated amp with remote, then add a sweet phono stage
zdw11 OP
6 posts
 
jjss49 not sure why you think i'm stuck with the idea of a mc tube amp.

I would consider going the route of a linestage pre and separate phono if there are quality options in my budget.

There's no need for me to get an integrated amplifier when I already own my power amp.
mesch
3,509 posts
 
Why not a tube linestage preamp, like one from Quicksilver, with a SS phonostage. Some tube preamps have internal SS phonostages. 
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
op

because you said in your opening post you have mc7270 tube power amp

is it my reading or your writing that is problematic?

i am only on my 9th beer this afternoon, but i think i can still read hahahaha
rockrider
181 posts
 
@jjss49,

It is your reading. MC7270 is solid state. Way to be an A$$. 
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
oops

i stand corrected -- i don’t know my vintage mac gear -- sorry

my point about the integrated amp still stands... get a modern good sounding integrated amp with a phono stage, sell the ss power amp, might come out ahead vs trying to get a good tube preamp with phono stage and remote capability for 2 grand or less
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