Need a line stage preamp


My Acurus LS11 line stage preamp (early 90’s vintage) seems on its way out.  Or I think so.  I’m noticing that the right channel doesn’t seem as “peppy” as the left channel.  I’ve deduced this through various tests and I’m left with my diagnosis.

that being said, I like this little preamp, and I could send it somewhere to be fixed. On the other hand, I could also buy a new or used preamp, but the “law” has laid down the law and she’s nixing anymore serious spending. 
FYI, I use the preamp to run an ARC Classic 60 amp.

My budget is only $500, so unless I can find an equivalent pre I’ll be forced fix it. The question is who does good electronic testing and repair or can anyone suggest an equivalent component?
last_lemming

Showing 2 responses by crustycoot

I got one of these and like it alot: http://tubes4hifi.com/SP10.htm
Hits your price point, does a nice job...supposedly the circuit is modeled on the C-J preamps of yore.  This can be ordered from China on Ali-Express too, but Ray provides a warranty and US based support.

BTW, I got mine without the remote option...didn't love the way the remote worked.  The thing is dead quiet and uses 4 Chinese 12AX7s that I have tried to replace with "better" tubes, but the ones supplied consistently outperform any other I've tried...so I am just enjoying it as it is.