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!

128x128signaforce

I ran the BHK pre with BHK 300s for several years and enjoyed them immensely.   Ran on Focal Kanta 3 and Rockport Atria ii.  Strong recommend.  

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. 

If I were in your shoes, I would upgrade the TT first. You can get some good open box deals on VPI Prime 21, Classic Signature, and Signature DS out there, especially if there’s an additional 10-15% off during a holiday sale. Your cartridge is already excellent. The phono preamp would be my next upgrade, then amp, then preamp. But since PS Audio has a good return policy, it doesn’t hurt to try it out.

@signaforce 

You’re welcome. I’m constantly debating which component to upgrade first myself, and what I can get away with under my wife’s radar:) This darn hobby!