... keep in mind that not all 'high end audio' preamps that are balanced actually support the balanced line standard ...
That's true, although such balanced components still offer advantages over single ended designs.
Reasonably priced preamplifier
At some point in the future, I would like to own a preamplifier from either CH Precision or Soulution but looking at their prices, I do not think that it is going to happen soon. So, until such time, I wanted to ask from experienced users here if there are preamplifiers within 7-8k (used) range that are different from the herd and can provide similar kind of performance that CH or Soulution provides?
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@gopaljeen If you were thinking of something capable of balanced operation, keep in mind that not all 'high end audio' preamps that are balanced actually support the balanced line standard (AKA AES48). It is that standard that allows the interconnect cables to be truly neutral. So its a good idea to ask about AES48 when looking at a balanced preamp. If the manufacturer does not know what that is, move on. |
I have 2 systems, one quite a margin over the other. They both involve separates, my pre amp for both is the Benchmark LA-4. Both solid state AMPS. Rock and Roll. Both preamps running balanced. 30 day trial period, made in NY. Ask RORY anything, very knowledgeable. Nice to deal with a human, no phone tag. Robert TN |
gopaljeen $7K to $8K will buy a brilliant preamp, and some of these are as good as you will find anywhere. They are definitely "different from the herd", stunningly hand built point to point wired, and use the highest quality components available. They are built by passionate and exacting designers, and are works of art. Aric Audio Motherlode XL if you need XLR or Motherlode II if not. Don Sachs/Lynn Olson designed Raven preamp (sold through Spatial Audio). Supratek Cabernet 6SN7 or Grange.....all can be purchased for $6,500 or less. For transparency, I own the Aric Audio Motherlode XL.....and it is extraordinary with both tube and solid state amps. |
@mbmi I have the same preamp. The Audio gd continues to blow me away with its clarity, focus, separation, and presence.
@emergingsoul I, too had the Schiit Freya+ before I stepped up to the Audio Gd. The Freya was really good. Schiit delivers way above their price point. Plenty of inputs and the passive option sounded pretty full. . It did run a bit hot. But I loved it. Can't go wrong. But the Audio GD is in a different stratosphere.
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schiit freya is the deal of the Century. It's amazing what has been able to do with this, a high-quality product that's built really well. Otherwise you could pay thousands for mystery boxes you have no idea what's inside them. Everything is way overpriced .. I like Conrad Johnson and have a couple amplifiers including the gat 2. You could probably pick one up used for about 12,000 and it's worth stretching for. Very comfortable to listen to. The solid amplifier you referred to very detailed and I'm not sure they are enjoyable to listen to. Freya is remarkable. I'm not sure whether they're doing a higher grade version of it although they really don't need to I wish the company offered phone service but you can't talk to anyone but their email responses probably are OK at this point. I think they have a retail store in California someplace |
@gopaljeen Townshend Audio Allegri Reference Passive preamp. There are a few lightly used ones for sale on us audio mart in your price range. It has received many excellent reviews. |
A couple years ago I ran through a series of highly regarded amplifiers. I'm a tube guy so keep that in mind, but I landed on ModWright, in particular their ls100. It's not fully balanced but Dan will put a transformer in it if you want. For me, this preamp is clear without being overly analytical, it's quiet, and it's musical as all hell. The only thing I dont like about it is the remote seems kinda cheap. The music room sells them and they have a pretty generous return policy. There are other models you might like better as well but I've been very impressed by Dan and his products |
Right now, PS Audio is selling their flagship preamplifier, the BHK Signature, at a closeout rate - half price. It's normally $7000. I assume this means they are about to introduce the revamped version sometime soon. I've had it for a few years now, and I find it almost perfect for me. It has a tube input, and solid state output. Five RCA inputs, and five balanced. Common sense balance control and a really good headphone amp. Anyway, if you are looking for a placeholder, this one would be better than average... David |
One of the quietest SS preamps you can find is the Holo Audio Serene. It has some similar sonic characteristics as the CH I heard this summer. I own the Serene. Though for many setups I had, I liked the Benchmark HPA4 or LA4 preamps more. I also have the HPA4 in the Office setup. The Serene is a bit warmer, and both are at the top end of quietness (at any price). The Serene is an easier recommendation since it has the tinge of warmth. It really goes well with all Class A amps I paired it with. |