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New to the two channel world - Advice needed on preamp

I am new to the two channel arena, but have been in AV my entire career. I am looking to find a solid preamp to match with my system.   I would be open to integrated amps if they are a better option.

Current Rig

Paradigm Prestige 85F’s and Prestige 1000SW Sub (Not sure if I really need a sub or not, but I have it nonetheless)
Bryston 4B-ST
Sony ZA3100ES (I know its an AVR, but it had the requisite preouts)

I listen mostly to FLAC files off of a PC. Looking to stay under $2K. Any advice for a newbie?
theaudioninja
dweller's avatar
dweller
3,781 posts
 
Since your speakers are bi-wire, I’d get a Balanced Audio Technology VK-300SE integrated (current model now called VK-3000SE). You could power the mids-highs with the BAT and bass with the Bryston (I used this very configuration with my B&W 804D3s with much success). Good luck!

P.S. The BAT has both balanced and RCA "Preamp out" connections which makes bi-amping a snap.
maplegrovemusic's avatar
maplegrovemusic
1,113 posts
 
Pick yourself up something like a nobsound ns-05p to start . compare any preamp to that first . You may save yourself 2k that you can put elsewhere . For $50 every single audiophile should try one . This is for digital though 
theaudioninja OP
5 posts
 
Thank you for the tips!

dweller - The BAT you mention is $8K.  Is there a model that is closer to my budget that would serve me well?

maple - looks interesting.  I’m going to order one off of eBay and see how that sounds.
abasia
16 posts
 
Try jbl nano patch or schiit sys passive preamp. If you need a remote the schiit saga s is quite cheap and has a passive mode as well
davekayc
173 posts
 
The rotel rc1590 will answer any prayers for best sound and configurability . The built in dac is smooth as silk . Also has a number of inputs both digital and analog to grow with any budding audiophile .

sound quality is every bit as good as my mac system. I have both .
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