Changed tubes again, and it's still going strong! With each tube change, I've tried different venders and tube makers. There has been a sonic difference between them all. But as Classic_bronco stated, it's the tubes that are microphonic. I try different tubes and listen to the "hiss" and tap them with a pencil to hear how microphonic they are. I also have Pearl coolers on them and have the pre amp on a set of absorb feet to help minimize vibrations. That, and a VPI Brick on the top of the chassis over the power transformer inside the unit.
My audio system has not changed. I am very happy with it. I have thought of replacing the Marsh one day, but as long as it's functioning as well as it is, I see no reason to.
I would have loved to hear this paired with Marsh power amp.
But still looking at the Parasound pre amps.... |
I would love to try this preamp I currently own a Melos ma110 with two Adcom 565 mono blocks and a theta data basic II . To Acoustat 3 panels ,and a udl18.. I am not sure if this would benefit my system? |
Thought I should finally post my experience with the Marsh P2000T. I am driving a pair of Heathkit W6A 70watt mono tube amps with it. Previously have used this preamp on a Curcio modded ST70, a Curcio ST70, Silvertone 6V6 console pull, and various solid state(yuck)amplifiers. In short, it is the best preamp I have ever heard. Granted, I have not listened to $5,000 preamps. But I have listened to a lot of the higher end vintage tube preamps. The Marsh has solid state detail and clarity, with the linearity and superior harmonics of tubes. Tungsol 5687 tubes are the ticket in this bad boy. Only problem has been microphonic tubes, that is the case with nearly all 5687 tubes. Do not blame the preamp for all the noise! I guarantee you it is the tubes. Buy a pile of them, put noise dampers on them, and find a tolerable pair. |
o yes arpierre, that little preamp rocks and provides a sweet sound, i have added a pair of jan raytheon tubes the red labeled version, i have tried a couple of different makes and my ears like the red raytheons, i believe different tubes can make a difference on the preamp, also a sizable sound increase was added by using mapleshade tube anchors, heavy feet, and maple platforms, happy musical days, |
Update.
Replaced the tubes, and all is well again. There is a faint hiss in the speakers (Von Schweikert VR4's), but I had the same problem with my Counterpoint SA3. After warm-up, the sound of the pre amp is as wonderful as it ever was. And yes, I have invert phased the speakers. I've used it with both Parasound HCA 2200mkII and Counterpoint SA220 amps with great results.
Just wondering if different tubes change the sound. Marsh says no.
I would love to hear it with Marsh a400 power amp.
A tremendously wonderful sounding preamp.
I love it! |
i am using a p2000t and was wondering how you other users are wiring your speakers, in phase or out, i listened for quite a while hooked up in phase and have tried out of phase, in the end i like the out of phase sound, i can understand why marsh would build a preamp and put a note on it stating the phase issue after tring both ways, i guess its the same old phase question, |
I've had the 2000t for 3 wonderful years. It is one great sounding preamp. But now, I have a hissing sound in both channels that is VERY audible. The sound is at a constant level and does not increase with turning up the volume control. I ordered new tubes and hope that solves the problem. It is a tremendously wonderful preamp and I would hate to have to replace it. |
Hi Fi Farm replaced the P2000t with a Lamm L2 preamp.
The Lamm is a better sounding preamp but probably not at three times the price. This preamps construction and quality of components is as solid as they get! Considering these facts, the Lamm is well worth the 3800.00 price tag.
I just expected a better product with trouble free operation from Marsh and the talent behind the company.
Good luck with your Marsh if you own one. |
Hi: I had the p2000t for a short time and had similar prolbems with all kinds of noise whenever I even walked past let alone touch it. The sound would bomb my speakers. I called the dealer and after a little haggling he agreed to replace it with a P2000b which was problem free. The P2000t seems to have problems with creating residual noise and I've read this about others besides yours. I wouldn't recommend to anyone taking a chance on the reliability of this unit. |
i have the 2000b. i've no reliability issues so far (2nd owner from 6/2005), and I'm not displeased with the sound, but you are right on about build quality: if that is important to you,it might make sense to consider other units. --jmd |
Your review makes a good point - while presumed improvement in sound quality is wonderful, who cares if the equipment that provides it doesn't stand up to basic use. If you really care about the latter, go back to your Soundcraftsmen DX4000. I have the same model and have had it in heavy use since I purchased it back in 1984. Not one single problem with it ever, which shows what the incredible handmade build quality of the Soundcraftsmen equipment was - right up there with McIntosh. |
