Schiit Freya +...a bargain, with more capability than any of the above mentioned preamps.
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.
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.
76 responses Add your response
I'm happy with the ModWright SWL 9.0 Anniversary Edition I added to my system a few months ago. Took a bit to get the tube selection right. Did not like either pair of Tung-Sols that came with it. Dan had me try JAN Philips and that did the trick. Very nice sound whether I'm playing rock, jazz, or something symphonic. Mind you, these days it is a bit challenging to listen and compare... System includes Bel Canto amps/DAC and Cambridge transport (the last I do not so much recommend) and Goldenear Triton Ones. |
Rogue RP-1 is very good at that price. The phono section is excellent. https://www.stereophile.com/content/rogue-audio-rp-1-preamplifier |
imho under 1500 the cj and arc options available are tubey sounding, but not transparent enough ... cj a little too much honey colored glow and soft at the frequency extremes, older arc stuff sounds very inconsistent (some too rounded, some grainy, some harsh, some explode the sound stage in really unrealistic ways) you need to get into the 2-3-4 grand range then the higher and/or more modern cj and arc gear are really top notch |
Thanks for all the suggestions! Keep em comin! The modwright and dehavilland look really nice but would most likely cross the budget line on the used market. QuickSliver is perhaps the most cost friendly unit of the bunch, Primaluna’s open top design and scores points for looks and build quality (and the price is pretty good). I don't want to jump on something compulsively but at the same time Id hate to pass on a great deal. What surprises me is that no one has recommended ARC...Interesting. |
I also have to agree on Modwright. I had decided my preamp was the weak link, so I Talked to Dan at Modwright, and he had an SWL 9.0 Line Stage he was rebuilding. He finished it, and I bought it. Turned my system around completely, totally better sound quality, system sounds like I always thought it should have sounded. Very happy with it. Regards, Dan |
I like the newer CJ sound but buyer beware nothing but maintenance issues tubes were only lasting four to six months talk to a few dealers like Upscale Audio he said CJ runs there tubes hard and in their experience you will go through many tubes with this type of equipment. First three sets of tubes came from CJ direct then tried other resources other two still the same |
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Linear Tube Audio has an extremely well reviewed David Berning design within you price range (maybe $50 more if you want the remote option). It also has an onboard headphone amp which may, or may not, better the Saga you are currently using. https://www.lineartubeaudio.com/products/mz2mz2-s DeKay |
jl1ny, I believe you are correct that the Prologue Premium replaced the Prologue 3. I'm not sure just how much it changed, if at all. Watch out for a high output impedance, that might limit you choice of amps. In your price range I think I'd like the Quicksilver. Easy to change tubes for sonic reasons. Lots of tubes, new and NOS, reasonably priced as well. |
You referred to a Primaluna 3, but not the model. I assume you meant the Prologue which I owned for a few years. My experience with it was not outstanding - with its matching amp (a Prologue 5e in my house) it was fine, but not so much with the other amps I had on hand, whereas another very competent pre amp I had had no problem with matching any other amp I tried. |
