@smodtactical upgrading to the GE 6550 is supposed to be smoother and wakes up your AR ref5SE preamp a bit, assuming you are still running the stock tube in that spot. Call AR and ask them about how they use to reference the expensive 6N30P-DR / 6H30n-DP Super Tube in their amps. Some like to replace both the 6550 and the 6H30s. For Plan-B, maybe there is more to be had out of your current preamp before leaping away. Best of Luck.
Showing 5 responses by decooney
@smodtactical If I too may offer a supportive angle about value and quality of sound some of the smaller lower-volume production builders offer. When we lock into a special preamp or special amplifiers, immediate resale value becomes less relevant because we choose to keep these units and listen them over decades vs. years. Looking at photos inside of Aric Audio amps and preamps some can see what’s going on there and what makes it extra nice in terms of parts, hand-made layout, construction. Something most of the mainstream manufacturers won’t offer due to higher labor costs. Lifting the hood and looking underneath, comparing, comes next once you learn more. Even the lower priced (Aric Audio 6SN7 Linestage) is nice, can use different tubes for different sound and presentation, another option if you don’t like tube swaps in your current ARC ref5se. And, we’ve got the designer/builder right here on this forum. This is value-add $ for those of us who seek out the better boutique builders. I’ll go out on a limb to say its likely Aric can get you closer to the sound you seek. Another reasonably affordable option if the your existing preamp does not work out for you.
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@smodtactical many of the nice tube preamps mentioned so far could be good, even better with upgraded tubes and higher quality caps in them. Some providers offer their own optional upgrades when purchased new. Or, when buying used components, finding a good local tech to install / test common upgrades can be another recommended option for consideration. Watch out, replacing and hearing a better quality tube or a better quality cap, can be addictive for all future components. :) |
Re: "Cary SLP-98" and "SLP-05" preamps and related "upgrades". TUBES: The overall sound, stage, presentation, tone, texture is easily changed with these tube preamplifiers by utilizing good matched NOS/vintage or quality new issue 6SN7s / CV181s. See other Agon, Audiocircle, and Audio Afficianado threads on this. CAPS: basic stock, older Jensen, F1 Upgrades, later Mundorf Silver-Gold / Ultimate Upgrade capacitors all sound different. Up to ~200hrs on Mundorfs to form, settle. I’m seeing members making judgement too early, not giving either unit or upgrades enough time to settle in. The sound does change after 100, 200hrs. INTERCONNECTS: both of these preamp units can be sensitive and responsive to different OFC, OCC, Silver plated ICs. After tube/cap upgrades, ICs become even more notable. Not as beneficial with lower grade stock tubes and stock caps. Both are decent preamp units in stock form with stock tubes and caps, however can be greatly improved with much better 6SN7s, upgraded caps. After these are done, great interconnects truly show up. All three upgrades are totally worth it IME. Anyone here who’s done all of these upgrades knows how it brings greater value out of your entire system, components, and speakers. Sure enjoy mine, fwiw.
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>>It’s a "budget" limit set as a guideline<<. There is nothing preventing anyone from presenting something at lower cost and high value.
What do you have in mind for less cost to pair up well with the OP’s Pass amp? |