What's the best preamp for under 1000


I would like to buy a top quality used preamp for $1000 or less. Should I be looking for tube or ss, and what models for best price? I want to be able to build the rest of my system around this piece, so I want it to be as musical as possible. Any specific recommendations? Thanks for your interest.
mainman

Showing 1 response by audiotomb

Not here to pooh pooh your purchase, I made the same one 4 years ago, it was a big step up but was later replaced in the ever evolving chain of audio pursuit.

I had an LS 2 mk II for the money it's great, it is very revealing but can be a little shrill on the top end, a well placed nos tube like a telefunken E88c or 188c can help (don't worry one $100 tube isn't a bad deal to tame this) some of the dutch tubes as well (my local hifi shop found a dutch tube that helped cure things nicely), but I ended up going up to an ARC LS5 which is twice the price for engaging real audio heaven.

experiment with the tube - it will pay off

when you are ready to make that or a similiar jump you should be able to get about what you paid out of your LS2.

enjoy

tom