I strongly second Aric Audio! I have had, Mac, Pass Labs, Don Sachs, and ARC, to name but a few. I have the original Motherlode, but his mid level gear is what drew me into his line initially. Give him a call...he is great to work with and a credit to the audiophile community.
Tube Preamp - What to buy?
Looking to take my first venture into the tube world and going with a tube preamp. My budget is up to $2500 and willing to buy used or new however realize with my budget that used is probably a better path. I would like to have a built-in MM phone stage. I am use to having a remote and tone controls, so that would be nice however not a necessity.
For further information my speakers are Revel Performa3 F206 and the current amp(s) is Conrad Johnson SA-250 and I also have a Rotel RB1552. I many be looking for an amp upgrade in the future, but one thing at a time.
So far I have been looking at used Audio Research and Conrad Johnson preamps but very open to opinions on brand and model. Thanks and I look forward to your opinions and experiences.
For further information my speakers are Revel Performa3 F206 and the current amp(s) is Conrad Johnson SA-250 and I also have a Rotel RB1552. I many be looking for an amp upgrade in the future, but one thing at a time.
So far I have been looking at used Audio Research and Conrad Johnson preamps but very open to opinions on brand and model. Thanks and I look forward to your opinions and experiences.
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- 78 posts total
VTL Ultimate, separate volume controls, well with-in your budget, beautiful little tube pre-amp with an outstanding phono stage. You will not be disappointed. https://www.google.com/search?q=vtl+ultimate+preamplifier&client=firefox-b-d&tbm=isch&so... |
I’ve been using an Audible Illusions M3a with the regular phono stage and the CJ Sonographe SA 250 amp the OP mentions he has for a couple of years now and very happy with the performance. With Kef R3’s. I also have a Motif C9 linestage pre either with a Primare or McCormack phono stage that I play with from time to time using the Sonographe. All combos have been satisfying to me. The downside to the Audible Illusions is it’s quirks. Dual volumes, high gain, maybe issues with repair from factory etc…. but it sounds wonderful to me. There’s lots of tube pre choices out there, but I’d suggest any CJ pre would be a nice match with the Sonographe. I’ve had the Sonographe now for probably 25 years and it’s been completely reliable. |
- 78 posts total