2. amps-preamps
  3. 159623-149763

Tubed Preamp recommendations?

Hi all- so im looking for a tubed preamp (used) in the $1k-$1.5 (max) range. I can’t decide. the list of contenders is too strong...I was looking at a PrimaLuna 3, BAT Vk30 as well as various ARC’s..then a Levinson 38 popped up...wow.
I prefer my sound on the warm and silky side of things..but not dark/syrupy. Thoughts, comments are much appreciated.

My system: Meridian 556, Musical Paradise tubed DAC, bluesound Node2i, Schiit Saga/Psvane, KEF Q150, pinetree audio IC’s/Cords throughout, MonsterPower line conditioner.
jl1ny

Showing 5 responses by surfmuz

surfmuz
407 posts
 

jperry,....+1... 100% of solidarity! Superb option.. respected guru Bascom King also mentioned that unit as an example of well built preamp. 
surfmuz
407 posts
 
I don’t know... maybe I’m too picky... I did compared Freya + rolling Ken-Rad 6sn7gt as well Sylvania 6SN7GT and RCA 6SN7GT with Modwright LS-100 and Cary slp-05 and on my opinion SQ of Freya not even close to those two units.
surfmuz
407 posts
 
Increase your budget for just 3-5 hundred and get used Modwright LS-100... I’ve got one a month ago and very satisfied with it... wide stage, clear beautiful sound with nice harmony of mids, heights and lows.. plus huge advantage of 12v triggers and full function remote control.
surfmuz
407 posts
 
Schiit Freya + Is very entry level preamp... it too microphonic, the tone board is too weak, so when you rolling tubes you always have to be extra careful in case to do not break something... and most annoying thing is that you have to turn it in with the switch on the back, manually, no remote on-off function :) really!!?
surfmuz
407 posts
 
Still entry level..no trigger option, ON-OFF function is annoying...even with best tube rolling you the SQ of Frea + is not comparable with CJ, AR, Cary Audio or Modwright..
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