What's the rest of your system look like? And what tube preamps have you heard and liked before?
Are you a warmth and tubey fan, or do you more into absolute neutrality?
Are you a warmth and tubey fan, or do you more into absolute neutrality?
Used Tube Preamp Suggestions
Looking for suggestions on a used ( because the budget is under 1K, and preferably in the 600-800 range ) tube preamp to match with my new tube amp. I don't use a phono stage, just a line, so a strong phono stage would only be good for possible re-sale. I'm a little concerned about buying something "vintage" and not getting the time in down the road. I'm leaning towards an Audio Research SP9 mkII or a Rogue Perseus which I read a review it was noisy. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks Rich
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If your amp can take a relatively high out put impedence (3500 ohms) and you want a sound that is on the warm side of neutral but retains resolution and high frequency (consistent with, or exceeding components in its price range) don't overlook the Primaluna 3. I can assure you that it will offer a real sonic alternative to the ARC SP9 or the Rogue. |
Joule is a very nice pre but will not be found under $1K (if you can find one at that price, make sure its not hot)! You can do better than the ARC SP-9 since you don't need a phono stage. At the top of your price, you should be able to get a BT VK3i if you want a more neutral sound, or for a bit less and w more of a classic "tube" sound, there are probably a couple of CJ line stages that would be available. |
My system is a newly built Pentode/Triode Bob Latino ST-70 amp, with Klipsch Cornwalls, my back-up is a Dynaco 416 and Pat5-bi-fet both of which have given me over 25 years of service but I am upgrading now. I looked into the Peach preamp and personally just can't get by the looks, there is a Conrad Johnson and especially an Audio Research LS7 both very reasonable. Hmmm. |
That's quite a list of great suggestions. You can't go wrong with any of them. I'll throw in my recommendation for an AE-3 DJH. This is the previous version of the MkII. They come up in the classifieds frequently for $750-800. |
Since Rcme53 is all done and happy, I want to throw one more recommendation for someone in the same situation. Mapletree Line 2A SE Stereo Line Preamplifier Very, very nice. I love it. One of my personal favorite underground brands. Mariusz |
Rich, What amp are you mating the AE3 mkII with? I have the new AES Superamp mkII and it is an unbelievable amp. Hard to beat at its not to cheap $1800 price. I am using my DAC's direct to it. There is a beautiful soundstage and air with this combo. It has many SS qualities to it like very good bass and foot taping rhythm. This amp would match well with your preamp. |
You might be able to find a used line stage only version of the UV-1 in that price range. http://www.atma-sphere.com/Products/#UV-1 Disclaimer: I'm a manufacturer. But since used equipment is specified by the OP this should be OK under forum rules. |
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Quicksilver Audio New or used, if you can find one. Affordable, value $ http://quicksilveraudio.com/preamplifiers/ |
