2. amps-preamps
  3. 1171513677

preamp for berning/merlin/audio aero system

I am looking for recommendations for a tube preamp for a Berning ZH 270/Merlin VSM MX/Audio Aero Capitole Mk II SE system. I have heard very good things about the First Sound Presence Deluxe MK II, Lamm LL2, Hovland 100 or 200, Joule 150A, Herron VTSP-2, among others. Do any of the preamps listed,for instance, have greater synergy than any of the others with the rest of the system? I listen to a lot of jazz and classical right now, and rock. Like most, I like a musical sound, not bright, but detailed, with good separation between instruments, treble extension and sharp bass. Any insights will be greatly appreciated.
kjo

Showing 3 responses by kjo

kjo OP
45 posts
 
Thank you all for taking the time to offer such helpful comments. Dgarretson, I have heard the Atma sounds excellent with the Merlins. Diamonddude, I neglected to mention that I have a (generally well behaved) 5 year old so I am looking to avoid exposed tubes (I think the Sira lacks a cage?). Sbank, I have heard from Bobby too that he loves the sound of the Joules with his speakers. Jwpstayman, I heard from someone else today that the VAC Ren Mk II (?) makes an excellent choice with the Merlins and the Berning. Oneprof, the budget is generally in the range of the preamps I mentioned - I hear the wisdom of waiting for the Berning preamp but have found that patience is a virtue in short supply when the upgrade bug bites. I had not considered the Tron - you have given me a research assignment. Jopi88, your advice is sound (no pun intended) but where is the fun in that? Thank you all again - you have remminded me why Audiogon is my favorite site. - Kevin
kjo OP
45 posts
 
Sbank, I purchased a First Sound Deluxe 2.0 Mk II, which is being inspected by Emmanuel Go and upgraded. I should have it in about a week. I have been using the Berning straight out of a cd player (Anthem cd 1 while my AA Capitole is being upgraded to SE). The sound is not great right now. I am gratified to read your comments because I was expecting something much better. Don't get me wrong, the Berning really drives the Merlins (good bass,nice detail), but the sound lacks refinement. I am very much looking forward to receiving the preamp. I will post a follow-up after the preamp is in place and I can do some before and after comparisons. Regards, Kevin
kjo OP
45 posts
 
Spencer, I received the FS from Emmanuel Go (via Swampwalker - both excellent to deal with) yesterday. I hooked it up and.....the transformation was phenomenal. The FS has pinpoint imaging, real energy,and wonderful tone. I was amazed at the before and after. The highs are extended, the midrange is crystal clear, and the bass has excellent impact and definition. There really is no comparison. The FS kept all of the virtues of the Berning but brought the whole system to a new level, and something I've never experienced before. The Berning/FS combo shows real synergy. Fyi, I changed out the stock tubes with Mullard Blackburns, having read some threads on these discussion forums. I did not do a before and after on the stock vs. Mullard tubes so cannot offer any insight there. Regards, Kevin
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