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Preamp Deal of the Century

If anyone is looking for a true "World Class" preamp at a very fair price..heed my advice. I just recieved a Supratek Syrah preamp that was hand built by Mick Maloney in Western Australia, and it is absolutely beautiful! This preamp is the best deal you will ever find. I would put it up against any preamp out there for both looks and sound. Price? $2500 for the Syrah (includes Killer Phono stage). Not into phono? Try the Chardonney line stage for $2100. Don't get me wrong, I am not associated with this company. I am just a very happy owner! This preamp is VERY dynamic, yet liquid. It conveys the sound of music better than any other preamp that I have ever heard! You can check out the Supratek website at www. cantech.net.au
slowhand
bobheinatz
722 posts
 
Thanks for the nice review on the Cortese LCR.  I have recently communicated with Mick and I will be ordering the LCR in a few months.  I listen mostly to vinyl and the LCR will be my centerpiece in my retirement system.
markusthenaimnut's avatar
markusthenaimnut
371 posts
 
1. There is zero hiss from the preamp. Not through my ESL 63s, driven by Innersounds Electrostatic Amplifier or through my 93dB efficient JBL 4430s.
2. It is superb at all volume levels. 
3. The volume knob is extremely solid. Both the volume knob and selector switch feel very solid and substantial to my hand. I would say they feel "tighter" than any of the other preamps, receivers or integrateds I've owned, from Luxman, Naim and Eico.
slowhand OP
610 posts
 
Hello Markus,

You have only touched the surface of the sound you will get from the Cortese. It continues to get better over time and should amaze you. I know my sound got better for quite a while after I got the preamp. This preamp should suit you well since you don't seem to be the type to change equipment often. I have only owned 2 preamps since 2003 and they have both been Supratek's.
slowhand OP
610 posts
 
Sorry, it was 2002 when I bought my first Supratek.
charliee's avatar
charliee
178 posts
 
Hello Slowhand. I am looking to order the new Pinot phono stage. What are your favorite NOS tubes for the Cortese phono stage? Unfortunately I sold off all my W.E. 350B's years ago after I sold my Sarah, and most of my 6SN7 collection. Looks like I will be starting over on collecting.
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