2. amps-preamps
  3. 1064417089

Tube Preamp with "pass through" for HT option?

Can any of you suggest a tube preamp with a HT pass through so I can use a tube preamp for 2 channel listening and my Myryad MDP500 G6 for home theater and satellite (with the option for 2 channel too). I am just venturing and gaining knowledge into tube setups so ignore my naivity if it applies. My plan is to continue to use and Anthem MCA II Series 2 Solid State 2-channel amp to power my Dynaudio Contour 1.3 II speakers. The other amp is an Anthem MCA III series 2 which powers the center and 2 surrounds. If a tube amp like this is available without breaking the bank (again!) please suggest and how would be best to hook up? Thanks. Dave
canucks0

Showing 1 response by joshua43214

joshua43214
60 posts
 

I have not noticed any difference between unity gain and pass through with home theater. So I would not quibble over the difference, either is fine as far as I am concerned.

I had a BAT and a Cary. The Cary was decent, but actually sounded a bit better direct from DAC. Don't buy anything from Cary anyway, they have the worst customer service and will flat out lie in your face.

The BAT was just a bad fit in my system. I am probably one of the very few that actually had my soundstage shrink.

Both of the above had either pass through or unity gain.

 

I am currently using a Levinson 523 preamp, quite a bit more than the Cary was, not a tube pre, but it is exceptional if you have the budget for it.

Another possibility if you have a turntable is the Manley Steelhead with a Skipjack for source swapping. Or maybe just get the Skipjack

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