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Sonic Frontiers Line 2, Heaven or Hell?

Looking for recommendations here concerning a pre amp swap. I am currently using a Linn Kolecktor but wanting to go the tube route with a preamp. The Linn has a MM phono section and not a perfect match for my 2.5 mv MC cart.
Should I look for a tube preamp that has a MC phono stage or go with 2 separate pieces?
I am currently auditioning a Sonic Frontiers Line 2 that has no phono stage. I like the warmth of tubes and with some rolling should be able to get it dialed in to a sound I like.
If I keep it, then I will just probably pickup a Phonomena pre for the phono. If the Sonic goes away then I am back to looking for a tube preamp with a phono section that is flexible to accept a variety of carts.
As always I like to get a lot of bang for the buck.
blueskiespbd

Showing 6 responses by blueskiespbd

blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
So are you saying that with the right tubes the SF will not sound warm? What did you change to? Recommendations?
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
I think my cart is fine and to me the digital end would benefit from a tune preamp to counter the ss amps. This Sonic needs to back to to Canada for a $300 volume control fix. so I can't decide to keep it or not.
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
I am listening but not hearing what I must in order to keep this preamp. It sounds as though it plays best when fed a diet of heavy metal not bluegrass. I have uncovered a volume attentuator problem that PCX can fix for $300, then if you add the upgrades and shipping I would have maybe almost $3000 in a machine over 10 years old. I want a tube amp that doesnt sound like SS. Any ideas?
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
the cat sounds like a great device...but no remote?? No can do. In the old days when I had a preamp without a remote I had a AR device that was an external device. I wonder if that is an option?
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
Rig is currently loaded with those Russians, you know those Solvteks. I am trying to decide if I should order 2 recommended replacements for the center row ie. Gain circuit.
I need to know where this can make the difference so that I could actually keep this beast. Several tubes have been mentioned and I would like to order a pair that will meet my tastes.
Of course I want great midrange detail, air on the top and a deep bass. the list I have amassed to date is:

Amperex Holland SQ E88cc, Siemens 7308 s, Amprex JAN 7308 white letter, Siemens ECC88/6dJ8 NOS German

These puppies are expensive so I don't want to misstep here.
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
So I have ordered 4 NOS Amperex tubes and will see what they can do. I will post back late next week with an update.
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