2. amps-preamps
  3. 1425545464

Pre-amp recommendation

Hi
My 2 channel reference setup is almost complete.
I'm looking for a suitable pre-amp to complete the setup.
A few that I'm considering :
Cary SLP 05 (used)
Cary 98
Pass Labs X02 (used)
Budget is limited to $5K.
Any other brands are also acceptable

My setup
Source : Esoteric K01
Pre-am : Densen B200 (for now)
Amps : Threshold SA/1 mono blocks ( Mids & Highs)
Sub Amp : Gallo Ref SA
Speakers : Gallo 5LS

It's almost impossible for me to audition so any help will be highly appreciated.
Thanks

128x128shahzada123
shahzada123's avatar
shahzada123 OP
10 posts
 
Thanks guys!
I had earlier planned on going without a pre amp but directly from the K01, the sound was bright and lean.
The Densen pre improved on that but I feel a better preamp should bring in a lot more.
I myself was leaning towards tubes and with so many recommendations, tubes it is.
Thanks again!
Will keep you guys posted
raymonda
855 posts
 
CAT, BAT and AUDIBLE ILLUSIONS should be on your short list.
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,505 posts
 
EAR 868, line only/no phono.
rlwainwright
1,904 posts
 
Steuspeed, it seems you have Gallo Reference speakers - bravo!! I have a pair of Ref. 3.1s (Front L/R) and Ref AVs for the remaining positions (Rear L/R, Center) in a 5.1 system. I truly love the CDT tweeter, what are your thoughts??

Best Wishes,

-RW-
schubert
7,386 posts
 
I initially thought the CDT on my CL-3's was a tad bright ,but after couple hundred hours on them I am convinced I just never heard a tweeter with such an extended range.
Never thought I'd find a better tweeter than the Vifa rings on my Meadowlarks but CDT just might be.
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