2. amps-preamps
  3. 130786-78412

Thinking of a new preamp and looking for advice...

So, I am currently running a BAT VK30 into a Parasound A21 to Golden Ear Triton 2 speakers.  Sources are a Sony Z1ES and a Linn LP12 to a Parasound JC3+ phono stage. Green Audioquest cables all around. Most of my listening is vinyl--lots of jazz and 70's-80's rock and female vocals. I love the sound of my system, but the BAT is very finicky about power, and I have a ground loop that I cannot find...It works fine at other locations, but has a hum in only the right channel in my listening room...It's driving me bananas!

I demoed a Sonic Frontiers LS1 and the ground loop was gone, but it didn't have the open airy sound that my BAT does.  I am looking into an Audio Research LS-27, and also a McIntosh C47.  My must haves for a new preamp are at least 2 balanced inputs and balanced outs, and a remote control.  I may like to stay with tubes, but I'm not opposed to SS either.  Price-wise my ceiling is around $4000.  I would love to here from anyone who has either of these preamps as to what they like or don't like about them.  I am also open to suggestions. 

Thanks for your input.

jptenberg1

Showing 1 response by tango_tilingo

tango_tilingo
47 posts
 

Hi jptenberg1  I know your price ceiling  as you describe it, but I will share with you briefly

my journey into this crazy hubby. I start it with a Kenwood receiver, move to a separate

power and pre amp it was a David Haffler. I change the pre-amp to Ps Audio 4 after that

I try most of the major brands from MC, Mark Levinson, Pass Lab, Cary Audio, SLP-98 and SLP-05, and final one was the Audio Research LS 27. My search ended when I try the Merrill Audio Christine Reference Pre- amp, it will take your system to the next lever. Merrill has a 30 days try, he is a very nice to deal with, good luck  Juan.        

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