2. amps-preamps
  3. 1375545022

Putting together first system... clueless.

Hello everyone, I've begun piecing together my first system, and I'm not really sure what to do in regards to the preamp. Vinyl is going to be the only source for the system.

The goals of the system are minimalism (as little as possible between the record and the speakers), and upgradeability. I figure, if I do it this way, can more easily learn about the differences in components and get a good feel for what I like and need, and upgrade accordingly.

It's a budget system and I should only spend about $3-4k for the entire system. The equipment I've bought so far is a Rega RP1 w/performance pack, and a Musical Fidelity VLPS-II. I think I'm gonna go with something from Magnepan for the speakers, so I've got maybe $1-2k left.

My question is this: Are there any recommendations for an extremely minimal preamp stage that is basically just 1 source in/out, with a volume control? If this equipment doesn't exist, is it much of a factor in this system if it's just a volume control? (As in, I could just make it myself with quality parts without introducing terrible sound?)
baliacta

Showing 3 responses by baliacta

baliacta OP
3 posts
 
No, I don't have an amp yet. That's what I'm trying to figure out, is what kind of amp/preamp I should get. I just don't really know anything about them.

After doing some reading on here, it sounds like I probably shouldn't go with the Magnepans, because they're going to really limit the number of viable amps, especially in my price range. I've been reading up on the Zu Audio speakers, and it sounds like that would be a better option, since they work so well with so many amps.

I was looking around the forums, and found what I was asking about is a passive preamp.

I guess my question is: provided I go with the Zu Audio Omens, is it possible to get a decent sounding stereo tube amp in the 1-2k price range, and is a passive attenuator a viable option?
baliacta OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for your help everyone. I really appreciate the advice. The Lores look better on paper than the Omens, and the smaller pricetag is nice. With the low power requirements of these speakers, it looks like I could go with any of these Jolida amps. Is there a threshold where having more headroom begins to have diminishing returns in regards to helping out with the sound?
baliacta OP
3 posts
 
Thanks for your help everyone. I ended up getting the Lores and I found a good deal on a jd302brc here on Audiogon. Can't wait to hear everything together.
More to discover