2. amps-preamps
  3. 1289943001

Preamp Options

Hi,

I am interested in upgrading my integrated musical fidelity kw500 and replacing it with a pair of mono blocks and a preamp.

I am looking at the following pre amps:
Lamm ll2 reference
Lamm ll2.1 deluxe
Von Gaylord uni
Allinic l-3000
Audion quattro 2 chassis

If I go with the lamm, I will probably pair with lamm mono blocks. If I go with the uni, I will probably pair with the uni mono blocks.

I currently have Von Gaylord chinchilla interconnects and chinchilla speaker cables. I have some shunyata power cords and a hydra 8. I currently use b&w 803d speakers that are bi-wired. I listen primarily to indie rock and vocals using a vpi Aries 2 extended with a sound smith smmc1 cartridge.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Yuri
ybukhan
markwatkiss
508 posts
 
In consideration of your location I suggest you audition an Audio Horizons pre amp,a California based company.Their pre amps are well reviewed and the subject of much discussion on this forum.
salevick
77 posts
 
The suggestion of reviewing a preamp by Audio Horizons makes good sense. I auditioned some of the names you mentioned along with a Audio Research Ref III and easily chose a fully tricked out Audio Horizons. Hope this helps. Steve
ybukhan OP
11 posts
 
Thanks for the feedback everyone.
allchemie
118 posts
 
The Coincident Technologies Line Stage is an incredible pre-amp and by far the best one can get at $5,000. The only downside is it only has two inputs and no remote. Sound-wise, you won't find a better unit. Coincident also makes a great phono stage at around $5,500.

The Audion Quattro 2-chassis is also an excellent unit.

I have seen on Audiogon the Einstein The Tube Mark II at $11,000. It is also an incredible pre-amp, fully balanced, very dynamic, crystal clear with great micro and macro dynamics.
bobheinatz
706 posts
 
Since you live in San Francisco you could check out the Shindo products at Pitch Perfect Audio.
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