@nightfall the ARC LS-25 is an outstanding preamp and offers gain adjustment and will work well with 180kohm input imp amplifier. Might be worth looking into it if you can spot one used. But sounds as if the XLRs aren’t a requirement. You then have CJ and even Rogue RP5 in that price range.
Best Options For A Tubed Preamp - $2500 Or Less, Preferably Used To Maximize Value
As the title says, I'm interested in your thoughts on what are the ebst options for a tube based preamp, $2500 or under. I generally buy used to maximize what I can get. Definitely prefer a warmer sound signature, but not to the degree where details and impact are lost.
What are the best values out there, in this price range, in your opinion? Any expertise, perspectives and experience greatly appreciated. Thanks.
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If you can wait for it to pop up used -- and it does -- the deHavilland Ultraverve III is in the price range and very much worth the wait. Possibly of interest https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/don-sachs-2-vs-dehavilland-ultraverve-3 |
Ditto @hilde45 deHavilland Ultraverve III is the best preamp I have owned by a large margin, bettering previous preamps from CJ, Aesthetix and BAT. It responds wonderfully to tube rolling the 6SN7 tube (or 6F8G with an adaptor). |
Definitely spend money on a great preamp. It is essential for good sound. It's also the last place you want a bottleneck. I had the privilege of owning a Zesto preamp and it transformed my system. More like transported it to another level. I've always spent more on the preamp in my systems and never had any regrets. Do your homework on this one, your whole system revolves around the preamp. You don't want to make a lateral move. Used can often put you in a component you could never have bought new. New. I would check out lab12 pre 1 |
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