Warmish SS pre:Rowland Synergy IIi preamp/others?


I am looking for a slightly warmish SS pre. I have pretty much narrowed it down to a pre in the $2000-$3000 used range. The best preamp I have yet tried (solid state) is a Classe CP-700, but it is out of my price range, used. I am looking at a CP-500, amongst others. What about the Rowland Synergy IIi? I couldn't find much around here. Pass X-1 was another option, but I was worried that it might be a little thin. I don't want a really thin sound, but something akin to a slight tube "ease" and musicality, but in a SS preamp. The Classe was very nice, and about the sound I was looking for. Other suggestions?

After listening to several preamps, I have come to the conclusion that a tube pre just won't work in my system. Every one I have tried has produced audible (at the listening position) hiss. This includes some very well regarded units up to $6K retail. Efficient speakers and 1v input sensitivity of the amp seems to be amplifying the background tube hiss. I listened to an I had a previous thread going, but that was before I had listened to some stuff and knew about the sound I was going for.

Amps are McCormack DNA-125 Rev. Gold, nice detailed SS sound, but still full.
chiho

Showing 1 response by philb7777

In the $2-$3K range the Rowland Synergy IIi might be at the upper end of your price range, but for what you are wanting would be well worth it.

I purchased one here on the 'Gon a few months ago and have been very pleased. I was wanting a nice warm pre, with low noise floor and dynamic slam, great smooth blooming mids and built like a tank and built to last. The Synergy IIi met all those criteria. Feel free to private email me if you would like to discuss further.