2. amps-preamps
  3. 163401-13968

preamp upgrade suggestion around $2000

Hi,

I am looking to upgrade my preamp.  I am currently using a Luxkit A3300 preamp.  Other components are:
Naim Uniti Serve streamer
Musical Paradise MP-D2 DAC
Otomon Lab custom build 300B amp
Spatial Audio X5 speakers

I am looking for a tube linestage between $2000-$3000.  From several years ago, I read good things about the following:

Cary SLP98
Modwright SWL 9.0 SE
Supratek Chardonnay
And more recent ones with good reviews:

Coincident Statement LineStage
Linear Tube Audio MZ2/MZ3
Don Sachs Model 2 preamp
I have three questions:

1) Is there other models I should consider?  
2) are those in the first group still good options since they are older models?  3) anyone have experience in them and can do some comparisons?



gte357s

Showing 2 responses by ozzy62

ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,292 posts
 
Out of the ones you mentioned I only have experience with the Cary and the Sachs.

Only buy the SLP-98 if your system is bright and you want to tame it. A LOT. The Cary is warm and lush to a fault, at least to my ears.

I currently have the Don Sachs Model 2 with all the latest goodies. I am extremely happy with this preamp and have no problem recommending it.

The deHavilland mentioned above is pretty good also.

Oz


ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,292 posts
 
I got the same result with a SLI-80 signature integrated. Very smooth and non fatiguing, but ultimately boring. Not much resolution.

Oz


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