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

@kjl1065 

Not sure if an Audio Research REF 6 would have enough of the tube flavor you seek but it may.   With some patience you should be able to pick one up within your budget.  If it is not for you, they typically sell easily.

+1 for the ARC REF 6.  I have one and it is a fantastic tube pre, paired with a Pass Labs 250.8, and a Shunyata Sigma power cable.  Superb!

Your doing yourself a disservice not at least buying and testing out the music hall I recommended. How can you lose? If you think it sucks, it can be sold on ebay. Lousy 400 bucks....heck of a lot better than spending 10k....just because it’s a whole bunch of money does not mean it’s a guarantee to sound great. It’s one thing I have at least learned in this insane hobby.

@audioguy85   -1  The Music Hall 25.2 might be fine for a low resolving system but not for a system featuring ML 11A speakers. My educated guess is with his current partnering components the Music Hall would scream “Weak Link” !