2. amps-preamps
  3. 126807-23018

Looking for preamp recommendations to go with First Watt J2 - Under $1K on used market

My system is: 

First Watt J2 Amp
Passive preamp (DIY but good quality - Goldpoint dual mono attenuators, Cardas connectors, silver wire, etc.)
VPI Classic 1 (JMW 10 arm) w/ Ortofon Rondo Blue and Denon DL-301 MkII
Coph Nia MC phono preamp (60dB gain)
Jolida Glass FX DAC
Yamaha CDP
Klipsch Cornwall speakers
Kimber speaker wires
DIY Belden 4312 interconnects

I love the transparency of the passive preamp, but I am investigating the possibility of adding a little more gain into the system with an active preamp.  I listen to vinyl 99% of the time, and I find myself pushing the limits of the J2 with the passive.  Before I think about replacing my phono preamp section, I thought I might give the active preamp route a go.  
The J2 has an input sensitivity of 1000kohm.  I'd like a pre that has a MM phono section, since the Coph Nia does not.  That would give me the ability to use a SUT at some point if I wanted to.  But it's not a necessity.

Suggestions/recommendations are appreciated, especially if you are currently using the J2 as well.  I want to make sure there is a good match between the J2 and whichever preamp I go with.  And I definitely have no problem buying off the used market to maximize my available audio funds!  To be clear, I have been using a passive pre for a long time, so I'm not really all that savvy about active preamps.  

Thanks!

Tom
tlarwa

Showing 3 responses by auxinput

auxinput
2,920 posts
 

Sorry, just adding a research link

http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/wyred2/preamp.html

6 Moons talks about how this amp is more like a passive.

auxinput
2,920 posts
 
There's a Wyred 4 Sound STP-SE on audiogon for $1100.  It is designed to act like a passive preamp, but with added gain when the signal level and output impedance requires it.  You can research more on the web.  Currently, the retail for a new one is $2k.
auxinput
2,920 posts
 

I'm not sure if you misread my comments.  The Wyred 4 Sound is NOT a passive preamp.  It is an active preamp.  This is the closest active preamp that I know which keeps the idea (and sonic signature) of a passive preamp, but it adds gain where the signal level and impedance requires it.

If you are looking for other active preamps, most will have some sort of sonic signature which adds coloration and changes the sound (which I assume is not what you're looking for).  Based on your post, it seems you're looking for the most transparent preamp.

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