2. amps-preamps
  3. 190417-1301

Warm, yet detailed tube preamp

Looking for a warm but yet detailed preamp to upgrade my Rouge RP1 (with NOS tubes). Rest of system is Coincident Frankenstein 300B Mk2, Zu Audio Omen Def Supreme, digital front end with PS Audio AirStream and DirectStream Sr (modified with external power supply for the analog side and different output transformers). The Rouge is a very good preamp (especially for the money), but it does definitely hold the system back at this point. I would like to add a bit more warmth of the overall sound and also add depth to the soundstage (without losing details). And I do want a remote... if nothing else, volume and mute.

 

Willing to spend about $5k used (or so).

128x128audiojan
celtic66
1,648 posts
 

Manley Jumbo Shrimp.  Ran one for years with Manley Mahi Mahi monoblocks.  Both are quite fast for tube gear eschewing the fat lush romantic tube sound.  I moved on only because of XLR active speakers.  Good luck on your adventure.

perkadin's avatar
perkadin
286 posts
 

Have you tried any other speakers?  Zu is the antithesis of warm and detailed. 

harrylavo's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
harrylavo
344 posts
 

Specific older Audio Research preamps (6B, 8) should please you.  

audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
402 posts
 

@perkadin Have you heard the Omen Def Supreme? I’m guessing not…

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,831 posts
 

I have not received a Demo' in any form of the Raven Pre-Amp', but I have followed the enjoyable to read thread about the concept through to working end model.

I find it hard to believe that there is a Amp' available off the shelf that is born from a better origin and offer the versatility built in to the design.

I strongly recommend the pursuit of learning more about this Amp' and attempting to experience it through a demonstration.

End Game sticks strongly as a term in my mind, as I own Valve Equipment produced by an individual who has long term experience, and have never considered changing it, even after 20ish years of its concept having taken place.  W 

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