2. amps-preamps
  3. 195181-91930

Suggestions for a holographic preamp?

I'm looking to replacing my Herron Audio tube line stage with something else, not because of a problem with the sound, but for a few other reasons.

I do both digital and analog, and have a Herron Audio tube phono preamp. My power amp is an MSB S-200, which is awesome, and my speakers are Marten Parker Duos, which are wonderful for a deep, holographic soundstage that I like so much.

I listen mostly to rock and reggae, and I'm looking to keep the price under $10K US, and I'm fine with a used one as well.

I get the feeling that I will need a tube preamp to get that holographic sound, but perhaps there are some SS ones that do as good a job?

The fellow I work with at The Music Room suggested a ModWright LS-100 or a used PS Audio BHK preamp; I've researched and they both look like they'd fit the bill, but I'd like to hear your suggestions, too! 

larsman
oliver_reid
79 posts
 

In my opinion, meaningful spatial imaging requires accurate speakers - rock solid phase accuracy through crossover regions and minimal coloration.

If you don't have that, a preamp is not going to deliver it.

ATC come to to mind

signaforce's avatar
signaforce
339 posts
 

I have the BHK pre with none of the issues cited. Works wonderfully, comes with a great remote and compatible with my Harmony One universal remote. 

mike4597
152 posts
 

The comment by Soix about holographic imaging was exactly what I had in mind when I made my comment about the Rogue RP-7 and RP-9 preamps.

 

i have also heard good things about the Backert preamps in this regard.

paradisecom
402 posts
 

I've never heard of a good universal remote (basic good, as in something from URC or ProControl) not being able to learn IR codes from another remote.  More than likely, an existing IR codes set was used for those remotes, especially if it is a small manufacturer.  It could be something as simple as a code set from an old Sony Trinitron tube TV.  It wouldn't matter.  As long as the receiving IR chipset can "see" and interpret the codes sent from the remote, it would work.

If the remote is RF, (rare, but possible) then that can be a different can of worms.  At that point, the OEM remote would be the easiest way to go.

larsman's avatar
larsman OP
2,410 posts
 

@daveyf - Right again, Davey (and @soix ); I don't know why he couldn't have put a 'Mute' button on there - all I really require is volume and mute. 

@oliver_reid - I have Marten Parker Duos - they deliver that in spades; they do with my current preamp. 

@signaforce - if I go the PS Audio route, it would be to audition the new PMG Signature preamp.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I've researched all the suggestions you all have made, thank you, and as of right now, I'm leaning towards a home audition of a Backert Rhumba Extreme 1.4 and/or an LTA MicroZOTL Level 3. 

More to discover