2. amps-preamps
  3. 181117-146816

Help recommend a good tube preamp

I am looking for recommendations for a good, fully balanced tube preamp (< $4k - $12k) for my system:

DAC: Holo May

Power amp: Hegel H30 (input impedance (balanced / XLR) = 25k ohms)

Speakers: Focal Maestro Utopia III

Room: 20ft X 21ft

Music: mostly jazz / classical. Some classic rock.

Preamps tried before: McIntosh C2600, Hegel P30, Holo Serene, Rogue RP5

Constraints: output impedance should not be high (as my amplifier’s input impedance is quite low)

I tried C2600 (but with different amp / speakers).

Recently, I tried Rogue RP5 - sounded great but it does not have XLR out (H30’s unbalanced input impedance is a measly 9.6 kilo ohms). So, a natural recommendation would be the Rogue Audio RP7 - except that in the Stereophile review’s measurements section, John Atkinson recommends not using the pre with amps with less than 30k input impedance (affects low frequency response).

 

Thanks.

Ag insider logo xs@2xreg19
larryrs
132 posts
 

+3 for the Backert Labs.

gryphongryph
352 posts
 

Aric Audio, point to point wiring, should last a lifetime.

Also Aric is a great guy, very helpful and accommodating.

barolobrain
45 posts
 

I currently use a Atma-sphere MP-3.2 that I got used.  Only using it as a linestage with a Zesto phono pre and and a DAC.  Balance in for both sources and out to a Zesto Bia 120.  It's quiet, dynamic and not finicky.  Bad news for some there is no remote volume.  I was using a BAT before and while meeting all of your criteria, it was not as dynamic as the Atma-sphere.  I will probably upgrade and not because of the sound quality but user convenience.  There are only two prospects, a Zesto Leto or an Aric Ultimate.  I only need to balanced inputs and one balanced output.  Both the Zesto and Aric fill those requirements.  I'm leaning towards the Aric as the output level is adjustable via resistor steps and he's in my home state. 

snapoli2
98 posts
 

Backert Labs. Love thier pres.

bigkidz
3,324 posts
 

contact me.  We will build you a preamp to your exact specifications, point-to-point wired using the best parts.

 

Happy Listening.

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