Seeking a Tube preamplifier


I currently have the following system:

  • 1. Martin Logan 11A Impression Loudspeakers (hybrid electrostatic)
  • 2. Bryston 4B3 Cubed power amplifier 300 into 8 and 500 into 4
  • 3. Bryston Bp-19 preamp recently purchased
  • 4. Rogue Audio RP-1 tubed preamp backup for BP-19 preamp
  • 5. Weiss Dac 204 with Modwright Linear Power Supply
  • 6. Lumin U2 mini streamer with S Booster linear power supply
  • 7. SVS Pair of SB-4000 subs.

I like the Bp-19 preamp. The sound is refined, detailed and clear but it is missing  some of what a tubed preamp delivers. I switched to my backup preamp which is a tubed Rogue Audio RP-1 entry level and noticed that is wasn't as resolving or crystal clear as the Bryston BP-19, but I noticed that a vocalist  projected air, depth  and a richness that I did not find on my solid state preamp. On a track with a guitar there was a bloom and decay that I didn't notice on the solid state. Now I was thinking what about a tubed preamp that delivers both the positives of a solid state and tubed preamp?  My maximum budget new only is $7500.00. Only need a linestage as phono is not required. In any case, I started looking at the entry level Conrad Johnson ET6SE, but confirmed with manufacturer this morning that there is no way to control the balance on their entry level product. I am disappointed, but my seating requires the ability to control the balance. I was also looking at the Rogue Audio RP-9, but their product uses a 6H30 tube which may be difficult to obtain in the future. Any suggestions or thoughts would be appreciated.  Thank you. 

kjl1065

Showing 2 responses by vthokie83

Your gear deserves so much more than an RP-1, a great tube preamp might be the solution.

My first two choices are the Aric Audio Motherlode XL $6,875, and the Don Sachs/Lynn Olson Raven preamp $6,395; sold by Spatial Audio Labs. Best preamps I've ever heard, and I auditioned over a dozen in the last year or so.

Next would be the Backert Labs Rhumba Extreme 1.4 $8,500 (NOT the base Rhumba), and the Supratek 6SN7 Cabernet $4,000 or Supratek Grange $6,500, and the 

I own the Aric Audio Motherlode XL, and it is my last preamp....but the Raven preamp is amazing as well. Both are point to point wired, used incredibly high quality parts, and their reputations are impeccable....and Aric will work with you if you wish to make any customizations to the Motherlode XL 

maxdukecapone

Agreed. I drive a Tubes4HiFi VTA ST-120 (modern Dynaco), Aric Audio Transcend "Push Pull" EL34, and a CODA S5.5 SS amp; and the gain is great to dial in