Solid State Preamp to replace tube unit


I currently own a CJ tube preamp. Ive always owned tube preamps and I would like to get my first solid state preamp.I am fed up with buying expensive hard to find tubes that last 3 months or new production tubes with that not so great sound. I pine for consistency. I probably wont sell my CJ I'll just keep it. My power amps are NAD M23 for the summer and CJ Premiere 12's for the winter.

Since I dont dabble in the solid state world I am not sure what to get. I figure since this is my first SS unit 4-5k preowned??. Some brands I have considered CODA< Pass, AYRE, Classe, Bel Canto, Krell etc. Note: I have tried the Parasound and Benchmark but they didnt do it for me. I dont like anayltical sterile sound. If it is a touch warm/colored that is probably good as I am coming from a very warm CJ tube unit.

Must haves are a remote with balance control. Multiple outputs (XLR and RCA). I have an outboard phono pre. Thank you for reading and for your suggestions.

jimbones

Showing 2 responses by dogearedaudio

I agree with those who point out that, generally speaking, preamp tubes will last for years, and that the CJ preamp you own is an anomaly or just cranky product design. There are a lot of fine tube preamps out there. I’m particularly fond of the 6SN7 tube for it’s open, natural and relaxed sound, as well as it’s sturdiness, longevity and relative affordability. A number of preamps are based around that tube, including the Black Ice Fusion F360, the Icon Audio Pure Valve, the Cary SLP-98 and the LTA MicroZOTL. Another option is a used Don Sachs Aikido preamp. I myself use my own version of the Aikido circuit, and it’s just a wonderful sound.  I'm currently using Sylvania 6SN7WGT's in it.  They weren't cheap, but I expect them to last four years or more before I need replacements.

But beyond the 6SN7, there are a lot of great and reliable tube preamps, some mentioned above. I’ve rarely encountered a tube preamp that "eats" tubes. I don’t see any reason to give up your preference for a tube preamp just because one particular model is giving you issues.

The MC240 is a nice amp.  Rich, solid sound.  I had a pair of the monoblocks years ago and wish I'd never sold them.  I wouldn't worry about NOS tubes too much.  There are plenty of good new-manufacture tubes available, though they sure aren't cheap. ;-)