2. amps-preamps
  3. 1425545464

Pre-amp recommendation

Hi
My 2 channel reference setup is almost complete.
I'm looking for a suitable pre-amp to complete the setup.
A few that I'm considering :
Cary SLP 05 (used)
Cary 98
Pass Labs X02 (used)
Budget is limited to $5K.
Any other brands are also acceptable

My setup
Source : Esoteric K01
Pre-am : Densen B200 (for now)
Amps : Threshold SA/1 mono blocks ( Mids & Highs)
Sub Amp : Gallo Ref SA
Speakers : Gallo 5LS

It's almost impossible for me to audition so any help will be highly appreciated.
Thanks

shahzada123

Showing 6 responses by shahzada123

shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
Good point there George.
Missed out the dual load.
Will keep in mind when deciding.
Thanks
shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
Thanks guys!
I had earlier planned on going without a pre amp but directly from the K01, the sound was bright and lean.
The Densen pre improved on that but I feel a better preamp should bring in a lot more.
I myself was leaning towards tubes and with so many recommendations, tubes it is.
Thanks again!
Will keep you guys posted
shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
I'm using 2 PS1200 A/C Regenerators to feed the system so... almost off grid. Battery power is not an absolute necessity here.
BTW, the Regenerators made a significant difference in the overall sound clarity.
Also the room has been treated acoustically, which was the biggest improvement.

Now for some pre amp researchÂ….
shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
After almost a month of research, I've decided to go with Conrad Johnson.
Initially thought of an ET3 or ET5 used, but then decided to increase the budget and go for the GAT!!!
Wish me luck guys.
shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
Thanks, Cerrot!
Obviously hoping the GAT will take my system a few notches higher than it is now.
My biggest concern is how the GAT will integrate itself with the existing components.
Impedance-wise it seems to be fine, but those are just numbers....
Lets see how it works out.
Thanks again
PS Anybody out there with any experience with CJ/Threshold combo, please feel free to chime in
shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
Thanks for the tips.
I have changed my mind about the GAT and instead decided to go for the Supratek Cabernet Dual.

The more I research, the more confusing it becomes, so I've taken the plunge with the supratek
More to discover