2. amps-preamps
  3. 126482-3688

Tube Preamp for around 2K?

I currently have a Juicy Music Peach II preamp that is being serviced and may replace the unit.  I have looked around the 2K mark and have found the Rogue Perseus Magnum, the Cary SLP 98L and the Rogue 99 Super Magnum.  I have also seen a few ARC LS 17SE for around $2500.   I like the JMA peach (6h30) but would be open to trying a different tube sound.  Looks like the Rogue 99 and the Cary have the same 6sn7 tube vs the Perseus 12au7.  The ARC would be another (6h30) approach.  I originally bought the Peach to match my Klipsch RF-7s but I now have Martin Logan Ethos and use a 200 watt SS B&K amp.  The Perseus has all the features i want (2 outputs, HT bypass, remote) and is the best from a price perspective.   I have read the Cary and the 99 will have a fatter tone but at the expense of frequency extremes.  The ML's don't have a harsh top end like the Klipsch so i am not sure I want to mute the top end at all.  

Would the Perseus be the best option of this bunch for a dynamic open sound with the most 3D soundstage?  My gut tells me the Cary SLP is the better product but i don't have any objective reason.  The ARC is probably the most accurate but i fear it will  be boring and not really sound like a tube preamp.  Thoughts?
macallan7
charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 
Hello Inna,
Yes, I understand your point of view.  It seems that in the opinion of some  veteran reviewers such as Jim Merod (PFO) Jeff Dorgay (Tone) and Dick Olsher the Primaluna Dialogue Premium offers legitimate high end sound quality similar to more expensive units. I have no listening experience with it.
Charles, 
macallan7 OP
70 posts
 
Anyone compare the primaluna with the rogue?  The more i listen with the MLs I don't think I need warmth but want transparency
macallan7 OP
70 posts
 
While my Peach is being repaired I have my Rotel receiver acting as preamp and i notice how grainy it sounds and not as clear as the Peach. 
philipwu
214 posts
 
@macallan7 
with the features you want remote , bypass etc.. and open dynamic 3D sound.. , you definitely have to try Rhumba 1.1 or the upgraded Rhumba Extreme version. It does not sound fat or euphoric like Cary and Primaluna , but excellent transparency, with very natural grainless extension. Cost new at $2995, used units will be of course lesser. 
Trust me , it will match very well with ML speakers.
-philip
aolmrd1241
1,039 posts
 
I went from a nine-thousand dollar[Harry Pearson fave] preamp to the PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium [at $3,200.00]... and have ’never’ looked back...its that good.

As Charles mentioned,the PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium offers ’legitimate high end sound quality...[because it is]... regardless of cost. Compare the PL build quality to ’anything’ you wish to compare it with,then go give a listen. Me thinks your wallet and ears will thank-you. 8)

More to discover