2. amps-preamps
  3. 161084-122106

Phonostage, preamp or amp?

Hi folks,

My system is in occasional (once every month or two) rotation with a few different speakers and SS amps I have accumulated.

I have been wanting to try tubes for a while and was wondering where to start.

Which component (Phonostage, preamp or amp) in general, would:
  • Sonically produce the most noticeable tube effect/experience?
  • Require more maintenance?
  • Have greater component matching requirements (gain, impedance, etc.)?
  • Be the most logical to begin with? 

I listen to mostly jazz, classical and some rock.

Speakers:  Magnepan LRS, KEF LS50s, B&W Matrix 801 S2s, Ologe 5 and Harbeth SHL5+40s.
Amps: Ampzilla 2000 2nd Edition monos, Michael Yee Audio PA-1 and a Forte 1A (which I can't find an owners manual or specs for anywhere!)

Thanks!
hleeid

Showing 1 response by gregm

gregm
3,415 posts
 
Since you opted for a tube pre, I strongly recommend a used CAT Ultimate with integrated phono. It is an exceptionally good design and the phono section is excellent as well.
The CAT easily outperforms most pres out there -- used it should be reasonably priced.
IMO, the other thing to upgrade asap would be your DAC.
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