2. amps-preamps
  3. 156625-89928

Preamp with Phono $3-5k range

I know this has been posted many times before but why not add another one to the list.

I'm looking for a new Preamp with a Phono stage or possibly separate Pre and Phono. I'd like to not limit myself to future upgrades throughout my system as well. I'd like the ability to use a MC cart in the future and maybe step up to Balanced I/Cs too.

My current system is as follows:

Sources:
  • Clearaudio Concept w/Concept MM Cart
  • Oppo 105
  • McIntosh MR7084 Tuner

Preamp:

  • Parasound Halo P5

Aplifier:

  • Carver TFM-35x fully refurbished and upgraded

Speakers:

  • Wilson Audio Watt Puppy 8

Everything in my system I like but I know my Pre is the weak link and it's time for an upgrade. I've not listened to anything better in my system and I'm open to suggestions across both SS and Tube platforms.

Some other things to point out is I'm already using high quality Audioquest I/Cs, Power Cords, Speaker Cables and don't want to change those right now.

128x128dustin_collman
luxmancl38
580 posts
 
I'll second the Luxman CL38U C. I've had the SE version for over 2 years. Best tube preamp I've ever owned. Previously I had the CJ ET3 SE after hearing the Luxman in my system I immediately sold the CJ. It's very easy on the tubes. The unit is as quiet today as it was over 2 years ago.
acefactory
60 posts
 
I also highly recommend the Luxman CL38u - I have both the standard and SE versions, and can’t say enough of the clarity and low noise floor. If the EQ option turns you off, simply bypass it (it’s still there if and when you need it, but not in the signal path). Outstanding phono stage as well, for both MM and MC....
4425
861 posts
 
if you can pick up a ML326s for 4k or so you’ll be in the big leagues. a wonderful preamp built to last. you would want the model with the green boards. i’ve had many top preamps and wish i had one still. it was/is quite  special. IMHO
jeony
38 posts
 
I am a new Supratek Cortese owner for a month. I am in this hobby for more than 35 yrs and used many good preamps such as AR, CJ and most recently a very reputable German brand line stage and a phono separate. The Supratek with the stock tubes sounded really good. However, once replaced with good NOS tubes (6SN7, 6922 and E180F), it sounds simply amazing. Total cost of the Cortese and new tubes is within your budget. Only drawback is a long waiting (~3 months) of your order.

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