I have been through a number of solid state preamps, Schiit, Benchmark, Coda, Ayre and Pass. I have a Coda amp, but did not like their 07x pre, though it was an earlier version than the one reviewed by Teajay. Noisy. I liked the Ayre, but a quirky issue for me, the lowest volume setting was too loud in my system. I think it only had 40-some levels and just did not go low enough. I liked it though. Benchmark was fun and detailed , but dry in the end. I really like the Pass XP-12, a hint of warmth, great soundstage, it has been a good fit.
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.