2. amps-preamps
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Preamp suggestions again with size considerations

So my previous couple of posts asking for equipemt recommendations turned out exceptionally well. I picked up a Linear Tube Audio Microzotle MZ2 which I really enjoy. And I really like the smaller form factor of the MZ2 and the flexibility of the external linear power supply as well. Makes good use of some limited space in my entertainment center.

So I'm back again looking for a recommendations for another preamp along the lines of the MZ2 in size. And if an external linear power is an option , all the better. This will allow me greater flexibility with my gear and allow me to move the MZ2 out as a stand alone integrated for a second system should I desire.

So I need another tube preamp to drive my First Watt Aleph J amp and a pair of Klipsch RP-600M bookshelf speakers. The Aleph J pushes 25 watts, with a gain of 19.6dB and input impedence of 242 kohms so ideally I need an preamp with gain. Other details are:
No phono needed
At least 2 inputs
Remote volume control
Under $2500 new or used
Unbalanced RCA in/outputs
Smaller form factor than a full size component

That about sums it up. I look forward to and thank you for all your replies and input.





128x128markf31
9 responses Add your response
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,559 posts
 
You are welcome...

Maybe try contacting Nelson for a closely held opinion (regarding your size requirements) in that he should know what might be a good match for his design/amplifier?

The only other "half space" tube units I recall, off hand, are from Audion (owned their 300B SET for a few years and liked it) and Audio Note.

Quad may have offered one in the past 10 years or so, as well.

DeKay

PS:

As far as the 701 goes I would want to know what the (3) signal tubes do.

I'm assuming a matched pair plus a cathode follower, but I'm still a ludite after all these years.






brownsf
38 posts
 
Check out the Benchmark LA4. It comes in two different configurations, one for shelf mount and one for rack mount.  Both are significantly smaller than standard components. It has both xlr and rca inputs. $2500 new plus $100 extra for a remote. It has multiple inputs (including phono).  It recently got rave reviews in both Stereophile and Absolute Sound. But it doesn’t have tubes. 
markf31's avatar
markf31 OP
11 posts
 
Very interesting dekay, looks promising. Thanks for the link too.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,559 posts
 
Less than your budget, but looks interesting to roll tubes in, plus it has user adjustable heater and gain settings.

Here's an "informative blurb" off the WWW...

http://singaporehifi.blogspot.com/2020/07/musical-paradise-mp-701-mk-ii-tube.html

The USA supplier for Musical Paradise is located in Canada.

DeKay
tweak1
3,658 posts
 
I had a Hattor passive (no buffer) and LOVED it, but had impedance mismatch issues with my amp. Wish I could have kept it.
I replaced it with an Audio Alchemy DDP-1 and PS 5 (outboard PS) which I am no longer using. If interested, see my ad in AA or US Audiomart
jackd
1,068 posts
 
Take a look at this unit from Hattor.  Can be run as passive or active with smaller width chassis and separate power supply.

http://mockingbirddistribution.com/hattor-audio/mini-passive-active-pre/
cat_doorman
237 posts
 
The Node 2i puts out about 2V with the volume fixed. The Mani (and most phone stages) outputs much less. I only know what I’ve read about anything phono though. With the gain on your amp I think you’d only get about 1W with the 300mV maximum expected from the Mani. So you might want some gain even with efficient speakers. Of course one way to test it would be to plug the Mani directly into your amp. I doubt anyone would recommend it long term, but the impedance shouldn’t be an issue. Your cartridge and gain settings on your phono stage will heavily influence the results. It would tell you if you can hit too loud, loud enough or not even close. 
Dont be distracted by dial position. Hitting max comfortable volume too early and not having enough adjustment is more of an issue than using the whole dial range.
I use a Saga+ because I don’t need any gain and wasn’t ready to spend more money yet. No complaints, but I’m going to expect magic when I finally upgrade. LTA MZ2/3 is on my list. 
markf31's avatar
markf31 OP
11 posts
 
A Bluesound Node 2i is my digital source and Schiit Mani phono for my turntable.

Running the MZ2 and previously a ModWright SWL 9.0 AE, both are 11dB of gain. The Node 2i through both required the volume knob to be turned to or past 12 o'clock for my listening. Given those experiences and the modest 19.6dB of the Aleph J, I figured at least some gain would be beneficial. But perhaps my assumption is misplaced as I've not tried a passive pre yet.
cat_doorman
237 posts
 
What are your sources? The input sensitivity of the Aleph J is 1.5V for full 25W output with an 8 ohm load. If you’re using a digital source you probably are at 2V so you may not actually need any gain. 
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