Recommend a Used Solid State Preamp for About $5k


Please submit your recommendations for a used solid state preamp for approx $4-6K.

In your recommendations, please state the merits of the unit you suggest.

I am about to purchase a pair of Pass Labs X-600 monos and I'd like to try a solid state preamp with them.

I'm currently using an Audio Research Ref2 mk2. I'd like to do a side by side comparison with a solid state preamp in that price range to see which one I would prefer.

......the rest of my system:

Infinity Kappa 9 speakers
Audio Research Ref2 mk2 preamp
Audio Research CD2
Audio Research PH3-SE
Grado Platinum cartridge
Sansui TU-X1 tuner
Signal Cables throughout

thanks,

mitch
mitch4t

Showing 2 responses by nsgarch

Mitch, so you're replacing your Carver with the Pass(s)?

Honestly? I'd keep the ARC -- you'll have a wonderful SS/tube sonic balance, and besides, you won't find a used SS equivalent of the Ref2 mk2 in that price range (e.g. a used Levinson 32 is $10K +/_ with no phono!)

You'll have a really great system w/ the addition of the Pass(s) but the weak link (no disrespect) will be the Signal Cable stuff. With the new amps, you'll be able to hear the increased performance afforded by Purist Venustas (or even Musaeus), or mid-priced Siltechs, or Straightwire Virtuosos (these are all extremely neutral cables, perfect for the SS/tube combo you'll have.)
Well Mitch, with the Pass(s) and the Kappas and the ARC preamp, I'd say you'll have a very synergistic system. What I meant with my comments about the SS preamp, was that your ARC preamp is already a pretty elevated piece of equipment, so if you want to make a fair comparison, you'll have to spend some money on a SS preamp. More than $4-6K IMO. But frankly, I think you're going to love the tube/SS combo.