Preamp dillema for McCormack Ultra Platinum

The Hegel P20 does look nice, I do like the remote... :) 

I have several of Steve's upgraded amps.  In fact, I just got back a modded DNA125 with some new stuff he hasn't done before.  It's phenomenal.  I also have legacy DNA.5 Platinum stereo amps and a single monoblock that I use for center channel.  I also had the TLC1 and RLD1 in the past in my system.

First of all, you have a great amp that will mate well with virtually any preamp.  The only exception is if you got yours modded to have balanced XLR inputs with Lundahls xformers.  This might make it slightly less friendly to certain preamps with high impedances.  There aren't many like that, but it's something to note.

The gain on Steve's amps is fairly high, so you can get away with a passive preamp...especially if you are using low capacitance interconnects and short runs.  The TLC1 is a good passive because it also has a buffered output in case you need to run long cables.

The RLD1 is also a nice piece for your budget, but my first question is why do you need a preamp?  Do you need multiple input selectors and/or a phono stage?  Many DACs now include a preamp/volume control, so I ask that question because doubling up on a preamp from the DAC and then a separate preamp can cause issues.  You have a tight budget, so I'm trying to potentially save you some money by just buying a high quality DAC with volume control.

Alternatively, if you need multiple input selectors and absolutely require a preamp, then I would look at a used CJ 17LS.  They are tough to find and probably a bit more than your budget, but it is a great preamp that I used to own. 

ARC makes great preamps too.  In fact, I'm even selling a used ARC preamp right now (LS12) that is actually SS.  I used it with McCormacks prior to getting a DAC with volume control.  It's got less gain than your VTL and sounds great.  Balanced is a noticeable benefit, but if you didn't have your amp modded to included balanced inputs, then it might be overkill.

I'd be happy to cut a fellow McCormack guy a deal, but frankly, I think the used RLD1 deal on Audiogon right now for under $600 might be your best bang for the buck.  The good thing about the RLD1 is that Steve can mod that too, so it's future proof like your amp.  It's probably your safest move if you really need a preamp.

Thank you for all the words of wisdom. My DNA-1 was not modded for balanced, so that should give me more options.

I like the idea of a DAC with volume control, I believe if I settle on one that will be in the criteria. Right now I’m using a Northstar Intenso and this has changed my thinking on digital inputs....it really is a big step over my SA8005. So much that even adding the Intenso inline with the SA8005 and the preamp the SQ is noticeably improved.

Don’t get me wrong, the SA8005 is a fine player/DAC, but the Intenso adds more refinement especially with a quality USB cable.

I may be spoiled with the Intenso right now so a DAC with a volume control will need to be on par with that DAC SQ wise...which I’m sure is not an issue.

How would you compare the CJ17LS to a modded or even stock TLC-1, or the ARC 12? I do like having a remote for the volume, I need to factor that in.

I appreciate the offer on the ARC LS12....I will give that some serious thought.

I may put the RLD-1 idea on hold as the consensus is it may not be a step forward in the sense I’m looking to go.

Do I need a preamp? Well, I don't think I need one, but I feel that right now it will be the best option given the current setup with the TV, phono stage, we even run the game console through the system....it makes it easier. 

It's just trying to find that right preamp that does it all in my budget....which seems quite difficult...lol.

I did see an ARC LS-10 programmable line stage for sale...little high on the budget but seems to have favorable reviews, I've honestly never heard of one.

It's hard to go wrong with either a CJ or ARC preamp in your budget.  

Both brands have remotes and retain their value when you buy them used.  There are other brands of course, but those two have quite a legacy and performance standard that make them safe pics.

A used Aesthetix would be another brand that is up there with the best, but I doubt you will find one in your budget.  Placette made a really high-end passive preamp that would be a notch above the TLC1 unmodded, but those are even rarer to find...especially with a remote.

Personally, if you're using the preamp for TV and game consoles, you might want to avoid tubes.  You're likely going to have to keep the preamp on a lot more with all those uses, and you will go through tubes much faster.  You may not find it worth the extra cost, heat, and higher noise floor of tubes with some of those applications.

As I mentioned, ARC makes a SS preamp in your budget (used) and the RLD1 would be a quality budget option for SS too.  I really don't see anything blowing the RLD1 away in your price range, but the ARC and CJ options would be first choice.