Recommendations please!


So I am flirting with getting a new (at least to me) preamp.  I currently run an Audible Illusions Modulus 3A with the MC phono boards.  It's a great preamp that I have been using for maybe ten years, and heartily recommend it to others.  I have thoroughly enjoyed it -- except for the lack of remote.  I am getting to find it tedious to get up to mute it or adjust volume every time I need to do so.  And at ten years of use, it's about the oldest piece in my system, so a change just for the heck of it wouldn't be unwelcome.

I need plenty of inputs (Phono, DAC, CDP, tuner, a couple of aux (for more phono!), and would like both phono section and balance control/dual mono (the Mod 3A is dual mono).  Obviously, a remote.  Amp is a recently upgraded MacCormack DNA-1.  I want something that will sound at least as good as what I have now.  Used is possible, but I'm not interested in vintage this time around.  I like, but don't necessarily require, tubes.  No need for balanced inputs.

 

Budget?  Let's keep it under $3K USD -- preferably WELL under.

 

Tall order, right?  That's why I've kept the AI Mod3A so long . . . 

Thoughts?

 

rnm4

I replaced mine with the PrimaLuna EVO 300. I am happy with it . Tube with a good  remote, 5 inputs plus USB Please note it weights more than 50lbs! 

Check out Tubes4hifi.com also known as VTA (Valve Tube Audio)

http://www.tubes4hifi.com/SP14.htm

I just purchased the SP13 (assembled version) and can’t say enough how good the build and SQ are. Roy, the owner, can assemble it for you or you can purchase as a kit and build it yourself. He responds to email inquiries quickly and follows up after your delivery to make sure the preamp is meeting your expectations and believe me, it will exceed them. 

Check out the reviews, not a single negative review as well as you don’t see many, if any on the resale market. These are keepers and I’m sure Roy could accommodate your needs. Like I said, check the user reviews and forums and you’ll find nothing but happy owners.

I owned the 3a and then the newest version of the 3b (4 sale soon) and they are truly wonderful amps. I had the opportunity to pick up an Aesthetix Janus Signature which is a step up in sound, especially the phono stage, and it has a remote. A pre owned Aesthetix Janus Signature is in your price range.   Worthy of consideration 

I use a Schiit Freya + with an original McCormack DNA-1. It has a remote, lots of unbalanced and balanced inputs, and can run as a tube preamp with gain or as pure passive or as no gain solid state.  It’s pretty remarkable. Different tubes create different sound signature so tube rolling can completely change it.  Can you tell me more about your DNA-1 upgrade?  On my list of next upgrades is the power amp and wondering if it’s better to upgrade or change course to something else entirely.

thanks.

Hi nymarty,

 

I got the gold special plus revision, with the advanced bridge rectifiers.  I'm very happy with it and service from Patrick at SMc Audio was great.

And thanks all for the responses.  I've emailed bigkids to inquire.  The VTA also has appeal, as do others.

Keep those suggestions coming!