New to Preamp - Preamp suggestion around 10k


Hello all! I am new to this site, and preamp. Thiss might be niche, but I am using a Stax headphone with its amp, which has a bypass function for external preamp. I am trying to add a slight bit of warmth, plus better dynamics and imaging.

 

Currently I have found some good ones (and available), from what I've seen on this site, as follows:

Rogue Audio RP-9

Cary SLP-05 (around 11k with the "ultimate upgrade")

 

I've also seen ARC Ref 6 suggested, but there seems to be a lack of sellers in my place. As for SLP-05, the distributor at my place said there was no demo, even for the standard version......which left me with RP-9 for audition. Would much appreciate your opinions on them, and any alternatives!

 

Thank you in advance!

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Showing 2 responses by yyzsantabarbara

If you do not want warmth and want a perfectly silent background, then check out the Holo Serene and Benchmark LA4. I used the HPA4 (same as LA4) with a warm Meze headphones and it was very good. I have not heard the Serene yet but the LA4 is my fav with 2-channel systems, since you do not hear it.

Another much cheaper option is to send the Stax headphone to Mitch Barnett and let him create a convolution filter.

https://accuratesound.ca/store/#_filter