Need a big favor picking a preamp

Holo Audio Serene with the upgrades.  I got one a few months ago and love the sound with both SS and tube amps.

Hi Dave.  I was in your position a few years back.  I'm familiar with the Nagra HD and Momentum, which are top-tier contenders (as you'd expect).  My research, comparisons and ear drew me to the Octave Jubilee Preamp.  It replaced my ARC Ref.10 and bested it in every possible way.  

The Jubilee pre is a hybrid design with a tube linestage and separate SS power supply.  It is very neutral with the ability to mine deeply into the both musical and spatial details (e.g. venue effects) with a phenomenal naturalness.  But of all its characteristics that really stands out is the Jubilee's holographic atmosphere that only valves can produce.  For me, it's a keeper!

Have fun in the hunt!

Ray

Why are you asking others about what you need to hear when you listen to your own system its like asking which sports car should I drive. You won't know until you drive it yourself.

I would recommend a Conrad Johnson ART 88 or an Audio Research Reference 10. From your descriptions of the sound qualities you are experiencing and desire these may add the warmth and musicality without discarding the detail.

@rbyington711 

”Why are you asking others about what you need to hear when you listen to your own system its like asking which sports car should I drive. You won't know until you drive it yourself”

To figure out what to test drive, of course.

I’ve made a successful career, and indeed life, in part by asking people who have more knowledge and experience — or just different experiences — what they thought about things.  I listen and weigh the advice or thoughts.  And frequently I learn about new things.  It’s the same reason I read what experts, or just those that come before, have done and thought about everything.

We stand on the backs of 10,000 years of human history.  It’s a waste not to learn from others’ experiences and ideas.

Indeed, while it may come to a surprise for those whose Internet forums to make pithy comments, otherwise be rude to others, and lash out for no good reason (other than to sate whatever demon troubles them — a mistake, for it only grows stronger) the real purpose of forums such as Audiogon is to learn from others and to help others.

I've learned a lot from this thread and been helped.  One day, I’d like the honor and privilege of returning the favor.