Here's what I suggest: Connect to your preamp a battery operated source, such as an iPod or portable radio, using a cable you've already proven is not defective. If the result produces hum, your problem is something other than a ground loop.
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.
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I am still not convinced that this is a ground loop, especially because you report that the Jensen xformers didn't resolve the problem. Here's what I suggest: Connect to your preamp a battery operated source, such as an iPod or portable radio, using a cable you've already proven is not defective. If the result produces hum, your problem is something other than a ground loop. |
EAR 868 is also a pretty safe choice - very musical, great tube sound, natural, good dynamics. If you get it without the built in phono stage, you can get it around $4k. I work with a great EAR dealer if you have any interest, feel free message me and can connect you with him to discuss EAR preamps. |
http://www.libertyaudio.com/products/b2b-2-line-level-preamp-dac Above you can try out in your room - Built in DAC too :-) From its maker Good Listening Peter |
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- 20 posts total