Balanced Line Stage Tube Preamps


A recent balanced tube preamp shopper asked for opinions on Rogue vs ARC, ending up with a strong verdict for the Cary -05. Just wondering where the PrimaLuna EVO 400 might fit in this discussion. Functionality is pretty much identical across the board for all: 2 XLRs, 3 RCAs in, and both out. I don't need Cary's headphone section but do really need a remote. Question is all about the sonics. Fellow tube sound fans say Rogue is too dry and clinical. But what about PL? I wouldn't expect it to match Cary or ARC (or C-J) in an ideal room, but is it more tube-y than Rogue? (I do need 2 XLR and 3 RCA, so less versatile candidates need not apply).

 

hickamore

I have the EAR Yoshino 534 power amp teamed with an Aesthetix Calyso pre. What a revelation and the Calypso has 5 balanced and RCA inputs

I have compared EAR Yoshino 912 with Atma Sphere MP-3 and MP-1 in my system and have prefered Atma Sphere. 

Aesthetic, Backert , Zesto, Audio Research. You can’t go wrong on this preaamps, my favorite is the Backert because of its musicality on the system I’ve heard.

If you can afford it, you can’t go wrong with Audio Research.

All the best.

JD