2. amps-preamps
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What's your "diminishing returns" preamp choice?

What preamp would you consider is at the point of diminishing returns for you? I realize this is a vague and subjective question, but I think it will be interesting to hear the answers.

Of course, a $10,000 preamp will (probably) sound better than a $1,000 preamp but everyone has a different point at which they feel they have spent enough money. In some cases, one may feel that there isn't a significant difference between a $2k piece and a $10k piece to justify such a purchase.

I've noticed that there are some gems in the audio world that defy their price point. For instance, Apogee Centaurs, Halfer 9505 etc. I've always found such pieces fascinating.
woofer72

Showing 1 response by rooze

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rooze
645 posts
 
I had a Thor TA-1000 MKII preamp that retailed new for around $11K. Having tried a number of different preamps over the years, I genuinely thought that the Thor was at the line of diminishing returns, and that it wasn't really necessary, sensible, or practical, to spend more.
That was until I heard the Allnic L-5000 DHT, which I now own. I didn't think there was THAT much more performance to be had from a tube linestage, but I was mistaken. Yes, the Allnic comes at a much higher price, but it's one of those rare pieces that make me think it was money well spent.
I'm curious to hear an Atma-Sphere pre and also a BAT at some point in the future. Perhaps the line can be nudged a little further still!
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