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
audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
402 posts
 

So I’m testing out the Luxman CL-38uC and it’s exactly what I was looking for. Detailed, slightly warm, spacious and just super relaxed

hasmarto's avatar
hasmarto
194 posts
 

@audiojan, I have that Luxman piece in one of my systems, and it sounds really good, don’t be alarmed because of its “cheap” price, it performs flawlessly and enjoyable. Besides, if you change its stock tubes, it will sound even better. 

perkadin's avatar
perkadin
286 posts
 

@audiojan I’ve heard the Omen and the Supreme uses a similar full range driver made in house and that’s the problem. If you like them that’s great, but asking to get more detail from them is like trying to get bass from a pair of Maggie’s. But sure, blame it on the preamp.  

jtcf's avatar
jtcf
1,617 posts
 

I have the Omen Defs also and they certainly don't lack in detail. I'll bet the Luxman will be a great choice and a good fit.I actually have the RP1 myself,which is a good fit for my system at present.

audiojan's avatar
audiojan OP
402 posts
 

@perkadin You do realize that the Omen and the Omen Def Supreme are not even the same speaker? And you might be one of the very few that ever said that Zu's lacking detail, that's what they're known for.

More to discover