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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!

128x128cming0038
mulveling's avatar
mulveling
1,895 posts
 

@cming0038 Nice! If you’re happy with the resultant sound, that is what matters.

Having a reference system (or systems) and comparing gear over time will develop your ability to quickly pick out a specific component’s sonic disposition (warm & sweet or dry and analytical etc).

For me, the RP-9 was not warm nor sweet compared to the ARC Ref 6 or VAC Master or VAC Renaissance III (or even the older Rogue Athena and Hera). However, I did like its bass punchiness, and overall clarity & detail. To be fair, I may never have burned it in "fully". But the VAC's were sweet from hour #1 lol. Maybe Rogue should do some initial burn-in and auditioning like VAC does (if a VAC component doesn't make the cut in audition, it goes back to the line). 

Your post is making think I should experiment more along these lines -- since I have a few nice preamps, headphone amps, and headphones at my disposal :)

kennyc
1,472 posts
 

+1 Backert Labs Rhythm 1.3 linestage tube preamplifier

cming0038's avatar
cming0038 OP
4 posts
 

@mulveling hope your ARC & T2 combo will bring good result! 

So I finally found a place to try VAC, though it only has Master preamp for demo...still want to try it! The Renaissance Mk V is priced at 13-14k (which is a bit out of my budget). Could you share more of your experience with VAC, espeically compared to RP-7 & RP-9?

@kennyc regarding Backert Labs, I emailed Andy a few days ago, and he told me about the 14 day refund (kinda) policy. That's one way to audition haha. And it turns out they will release Rhythm 1.4 soon. I am looking forward to what upgrades it brings

 

Also, what do you guys think about Accuphase? There's a shop which could import it's preamps at a rather low price (e.g. their latest flagship model at 17k). Heard it offers a sweet sound as well!

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