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

Stereophile class ratings hold little to no value. A Schitt Freya + would add to the noise floor and would lack synergy over the current Bryston BP 19. ARC/VTL and VAC is where I would start if trying too synergistically match a vacuum tube preamp with a Bryston power amp.

Thank you for your responses. The last two responses recommended the following: 

  1. Conrad Johnson preamps: I needed a preamp with a balance control. The least expensive option with a balance control is the ET-7 which retails for $13,500.00. 
  2. VAC-The least expensive preamp is over $10,000.00. Great sound is important to me but there are real financial limits.  I am now looking at the Backart line of preamps, specifically the Rhumba or Rhumba extreme which have gotten great review in the audio press and also with consumers.  Thanks for all your input.