2. amps-preamps
  3. 159623-149763

Tubed Preamp recommendations?

Hi all- so im looking for a tubed preamp (used) in the $1k-$1.5 (max) range. I can’t decide. the list of contenders is too strong...I was looking at a PrimaLuna 3, BAT Vk30 as well as various ARC’s..then a Levinson 38 popped up...wow.
I prefer my sound on the warm and silky side of things..but not dark/syrupy. Thoughts, comments are much appreciated.

My system: Meridian 556, Musical Paradise tubed DAC, bluesound Node2i, Schiit Saga/Psvane, KEF Q150, pinetree audio IC’s/Cords throughout, MonsterPower line conditioner.
128x128jl1ny
peach-1
25 posts
 
Sorry for the typo results were all the same CJ had to go and it did
Ag insider logo xs@2x
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I also have to agree on Modwright. I had decided my preamp was the weak link, so I Talked to Dan at Modwright, and he had an SWL 9.0 Line Stage he was rebuilding. He finished it, and I bought it. Turned my system around completely, totally better sound quality, system sounds like I always thought it should have sounded. Very happy with it.

Regards,
Dan
jl1ny's avatar
jl1ny OP
396 posts
 
Thanks for all the suggestions! Keep em comin! The modwright and dehavilland look really nice but would most likely cross the budget line on the used market. QuickSliver is perhaps the most cost friendly unit of the bunch, Primaluna’s open top design and scores points for looks and build quality (and the price is pretty good). I don't want to jump on something compulsively but at the same time Id hate to pass on a great deal. What surprises me is that no one has recommended ARC...Interesting.
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,612 posts
 
imho under 1500 the cj and arc options available are tubey sounding, but not transparent enough ... cj a little too much honey colored glow and soft at the frequency extremes, older arc stuff sounds very inconsistent (some too rounded, some grainy, some harsh, some explode the sound stage in really unrealistic ways)

you need to get into the 2-3-4 grand range then the higher and/or more modern cj and arc gear are really top notch
ullogu1
25 posts
 
Take a look at a Croft Micro 25 pre

More to discover