2. amps-preamps
  3. 191859-178608

PS Audio BHK signature preamp

I was reviewing another preamp post and stumbled upon a recommendation for the PS Audio BHK signature preamp currently half price ($7,000 - selling for $3,500) directly from PS Audio & (unfortunately) decided to research it. I say unfortunately, as I was not looking to buy a preamp.

It has excellent reviews, the audiogon forums speak highly of it, it is the perfect size, has an excellent HF amp (I need one), uses the same tubes as my Rogue RP-1 (I have some excellent NOS tubes) is fully capable with my Logitech Harmony One remote… seemingly a match made in heaven. I want it… and if not happily married, I would get it.


So looking for someone to talk me out of it. I know it will give me a good HF amp, full remote vs partial remote control, and better pride of ownership, vs an albeit excellent ‘entry’ preamp. But given my other components, will it sound the same, slightly better or significantly better? Is it too good for my system? Would I be better off upgrading another component? I currently wasn’t looking to upgrade my Rogue, but this seemed to be too good to pass. My current system:

Rogue RP-1 pre with NOS Telefunkon medical, Siemens nickel plate & Brimar CV4003 NOS tubes (rolling)

LSA Warp 1 amp

KEF R11 speakers

Rythmic F12SE sub w/miniDSP equalization

Aurender N150 streaming Qobuz

Chord Qutest DAC

Pro-ject 1Xpression carbon classic with Hana ML cart

Rega Aria phono stage

Focal Clear OG HF

Transparent + speaker cables, Mogami 2549 interconnects & Maze audio power cables

 

Prior to seeing the PS Audio deal I was considering the following upgrades:  (I am very component space constrained in my choices):

Pro-ject TT > Rega P8

Warp 1 amp > Benchmark AHB2

Please let me know your thoughts and/or recommendations.  Thanks!

signaforce

Showing 3 responses by photon46

photon46
1,096 posts
 

I used a BHK pre for quite a few years in rotation with a Luxman C-700u, DeHavilland UltraVerve III, &  ModWright LS36.5. It was an excellent sounding preamp that held its own with respect to the others. Of course, each has its particular strong points relative to the others and which one preferred depended on the partnering speakers, amp, etc. No noise issues for me as my speakers are all medium sensitivity, around 87-88db. I had issues with reliability and after the second trip back to PS Audio for repair in five years I sold it as I have no patience for gear that isn't reliable. PS Audio's repair service and customer support was excellent. Repairs were rapid and they didn't even charge me for the second repair, so I give them kudos and thanks for the support process. No product line has a 100% fail safe record so I don't know one can draw any conclusions about the BHK's manufacturing quality from my experience. 

photon46
1,096 posts
 

I agree with audphile1 about not rushing to tube roll. The latest tubes that PSA ships the BHK with are very decent tubes. After the preamp is broken in and you've got a handle on the sound is the time to think about whether it might be tweaked in one direction or another to suit preferences. However, I wouldn't worry about getting a matching amp at all. I had a BHK250 I used with my BHK pre and it had no special synergy at all IMO. I also used the BHK pre with PS Audio M1200 monos, Luxman M-700u, Modwright KWA99s, and a Decware Zen Torii. The BHK sounded fantastic with all of them. I sold the BHK250 and preferred the PSA Audio M1200s in my system. Paul @ PSA would always insist the BHK250 was a better amp than  the M1200s but I always thought that was just PR talk to reinforce their pricing structure. 

photon46
1,096 posts
 

"Best" tubes will depend on the rest of your system and preferences. I preferred unusual choices: red label CBS/Hytron 5814a or Raytheon black plate 5814a tubes. Siemens and Telefunkens were just too bright with my Tidal Piano Ceras for my tastes. The BHK one was one of the most universally adaptable components with different partners I ever owned. Adding a PS Audio Power Plant to the mix took the BHK another level of performance as well.  Enjoy your new preamp!

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