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 2 responses by hleeid

hleeid OP
219 posts
 
Appreciate the advice!
Ok. Makes sense to go with a tube preamp.

My sources right now are laptop > temporary DAC (Fostex HPA8) > Bryston BP26 preamp.

I also just got my first turntable. It's a Rega RP8 fitted with an Exact MM. I have a Denon DL 103 MC as well and am looking into cartridges. Right now I am using a Vincent PHO until I figure out which phonestage to go with.

Any suggestions for a tube preamp new or used for about 2k?
Should I be looking to spend a little more?
hleeid OP
219 posts
 
@jjss49  My laptop is a SSD HP.  Will look into a usb reclocker.
Thanks for the tip!
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