2. amps-preamps
  3. 1323472008

Preamp for Lamm M1.1 monoblocks

Any general recommendation on what preamp to use with Lamm M1.1 hybrid monoblocks?

I am using Boulder L3AE at this time. I used to match the monoblocks with the Lamm L1 preamp but I was getting over-excited about the very faint power-supply hum and regretfully sold it.

Budget is USD $4000 or less.

Source: Ayon CD2
Speakers: Vienna Acoustics Mahler
Music Genre: Would listen to anything other than rap and heavy metal - mostly orchestral and vocal.

Thanks in advance!
bsimpson

Showing 1 response by tricon_dave

tricon_dave
96 posts
 
I have M1.2 monoblocks and owned the Lamm LL2.1 Deluxe, then Musical Fidelity hybrid kW and now have an Audio Research Reference 5. Each move was a step in the right direction of improved transparency, attack and dynamics. The Ref 5 gives me the tube bloom and dimensionality with natural attack and dynamics. The Lamm was nice, but lacked transparency, obscured some musical detail, and I missed a remote control for volume.

So given your budget, you might try a used Ref 3. If you want to understand the sonic difference between the Ref 3 and Ref 5, read Jonathan Valin's review in TAS.

Good luck!
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