Preamp for Parasound and B&W803d2


I have a set of B&W 803d2 now paired with 2 Parasound JC1 mono blocks, I am trying to find a matching balanced preamp which is more on the softer side. 
I was thinking about Mcintosh C220 (tube) or Pass Lab X1 or maybe a PS Audio BHK hybrid. 
I would be interested in your opinions on the preamps. Thank you. 

ycvoelk

Very pleased with the performance of the PrimaLuna Evo 400 Preamp. Pairing it with Hegel H30s so a somewhat similar situation.  Tube and balanced.  

OP- how are you liking the JC1s? I also have 803s (D3) and am looking for more current to drive them than what's on tap from my Vincent SP331 stereo amp.

Thank you very much for the good feedback. 

@tomcarr the 803d2 are power hungry more than I thought originally. 
I really like the JC1s, they  provide the needed power and current. 

Nice imaging and much better bass response. The silver faces are appealing to me. 
@soix my budget is around $3k. 

OP- that's what I thought. Glad you're enjoying the JC1s.

Thanks for the response!

This LTA MZ3 is an excellent preamp and also an outstanding headphone amplifier if you ever plan on using good headphones.  Also, you can change tubes to customize the sound to your liking.  
https://www.ebay.com/itm/234750039389

Here’s a review fyi…

https://positive-feedback.com/reviews/hardware-reviews/lta-mz3-preamplifier/
 

Best of luck.

Topping Pre90.

It's not on the softer side, it's extremely clear and neutral, and it makes my 803 D3s sound fantastic.

Amp is the Vincent SP-331 hybrid.

Just my 2c

Tom

I'm going to recommend something a little different, if you call or email Al at space tech labs and tell him exactly what kind of sound you are trying to achieve he will get right back to you and have a recommendation. Most of his preamps are balanced input and output.