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!

128x128signaforce
yyzsantabarbara
4,878 posts
 

I have a CODA #16 today (love it). For the BHK preamp I would try the AHB2 over the CODA #8 since I do not like too much warmth. I owned the #8 before.

The AHB2 is available for home trial. I like the top end of the AHB2 over the #8. If your speakers are not very demanding nor do you play very loud then a single AHB2 in stereo would be great. A better version of the AHB2 is the SimAudo  Moon North Collection 761 ($$$)

Instead of the BHK pre, I would have gotten the Benchmark LA4 and paired it with the CODA #8. I had this combo with KEF LS50's a few years ago. I think the LA4 or HPA4 are the best gear Benchmark makes. The LA4 and AHB2 combo are best for me with warmer speakers. 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,124 posts
 

@yyzsantabarbara I had CSiB in my system and I would not classify it as warm. It’s open, detailed and clear. Benchmark with OP’s Kef speakers might lean towards cool and analytical. Especially with Chord Qutest DAC. I would be hesitant to pair Benchmark with Kef. But that’s just my opinion.

@signaforce how’s the preamp sounding? I think you’ll be fine with XLR between BHK and Coda. Good idea to confirm with Doug though.

peter_s
1,336 posts
 

I found the benchmark amplifier to be on the sterile side, and boring. Good thing they have a return policy. You can try it out. I have never heard a coda, but would love to.

signaforce's avatar
signaforce OP
195 posts
 

@audphile1 @peter_s @yyzsantabarbara 

I don’t think anyone has ever accused my R11’s of being warm. I agree the Benchmark would not be a great pairing with my KEF’s, both from a power and sound signature standpoint. I am completely in on the BHK pre, and 90% on the Coda #8. Thanks.
@audphile1 My BHK has still not arrived due to continued FedEx ineptness. I got PS audio (as the shipper with much more influence) involved yesterday evening, since FedEx was completely unresponsive to me. They set up a 3 way call with FedEx. FedEx assured us the pre would be delivered between 2-4 today. Excellent service from PS Audio!  We shall see on FedEx … 
BTW, we need to talk about my Qutest replacement… and/or buying the chord upscaler Thanks!

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,124 posts
 

@signaforce hope FedEx comes through!

as to DAC replacement…I’d tackle it after the amp change is in and everything had settled including your ears adjusting to new sound. 
Many choices there in DAC space.

More to discover