2. amps-preamps
  3. 156625-89928

Preamp with Phono $3-5k range

I know this has been posted many times before but why not add another one to the list.

I'm looking for a new Preamp with a Phono stage or possibly separate Pre and Phono. I'd like to not limit myself to future upgrades throughout my system as well. I'd like the ability to use a MC cart in the future and maybe step up to Balanced I/Cs too.

My current system is as follows:

Sources:
  • Clearaudio Concept w/Concept MM Cart
  • Oppo 105
  • McIntosh MR7084 Tuner

Preamp:

  • Parasound Halo P5

Aplifier:

  • Carver TFM-35x fully refurbished and upgraded

Speakers:

  • Wilson Audio Watt Puppy 8

Everything in my system I like but I know my Pre is the weak link and it's time for an upgrade. I've not listened to anything better in my system and I'm open to suggestions across both SS and Tube platforms.

Some other things to point out is I'm already using high quality Audioquest I/Cs, Power Cords, Speaker Cables and don't want to change those right now.

dustin_collman

Showing 1 response by millercarbon

millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
Balanced isn’t stepping up. Balanced is stepping sideways, at greater cost. Same goes for separates. Your budget for example will buy you a truly awesome sounding integrated with something like a Raven Nighthawk for around $3k, and another absolute giant killer phono stage in the Herron VTPH2A for about another $3k.

Seems at first glance these are over budget. But you sell your pre and power and eliminate the power cord and IC you no longer need because you no longer have separates.

These will be a monster unbelievable huge upgrade, do everything you want, and net out in budget or if you go over, well worth it as they will be the foundation of your system for years to come.

I have the Herron. The Raven is a better version of my Melody.
https://systems.audiogon.com/systems/8367#&gid=1&pid=8
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