2. amps-preamps
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Preamp Opinion

A couple of weeks ago, I asked for advice on my amp and preamp. Although I am sure that it could be improved, I have come to the conclusion that the Parasound A23 is the least of my problems. I also have a Parasound New Classic 2100 preamp, a Marantz 8600 CD player/streamer (which I also think doesn't need to be replaced), and Focal Aria 926 speakers. I did listen to advice I was given and am expecting a vintage McIntosh SL-1 sub to my system.

I am looking at a few used preamps and wanted to get your opinions on them since the only one I have heard is the Adcom GFP-750 and that was years ago. My memory is that it had a very good sound to it. The other preamps I am considering are the Rotel RC-1572, Rogue RP-1, Coplant CTA 301 MKII, Bryston BP6, and Vincent SA-T7. Unfortunately, I have not heard any of them and don't have a location where I can. I tend to prefer a sound that is not too bright but provides a good clear soundstage and imaging. I have always owned solid state before and am a little leery of tube maintenance.

Thank you for your advice or observations about any of these preamps.
bcool57
bcool57 OP
24 posts
 
Trust me! If I built it, you would not want to listen to it😂

There is a Rogue 99 on eBay now. Looks good! Good price! But Nick at Rogue recommends the RP-1 over the 99. He said the tubes are improved. I know I could switch the tubes in the 99. But that is probably part of the reason I have always gone solid state. Pretty much zero maintenance. Plug and enjoy. That’s why I’m looking so hard at the Bryston.
rmdmoore
148 posts
 
For me tubes sound better. Also, as others have said, there is really very little maintenance for a tube pre, the tubues should last you 10k+ hours. Also, if you wanna try a different sound, you don't need to drop $$$ on a new preamp. You can replace the tubes and try and achieve a different sound that way. The 99 from rogue was a great preamp. It was their original step up from the 66. Based on your system, it does not seem like you're an analog guy but the RP-1 gives you some flexibility in that regard as it has a more than serviceable phono stage in it.
bcool57 OP
24 posts
 
No, I bought the lie years ago that vinyl was dead and gave all my old 1960’s and 1970’s albums away😢 Now I don’t feel like spending the money to buy them again.
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jw944ts's avatar
jw944ts
323 posts
 
+1 @atmasphere 
for decades i was leary of tubes, finally gave it a try in preamp and phono preamp.....FANTASTIC!!  also rolled a few tubes, WONDERFUL!!
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