2. amps-preamps
  3. 193118-3022

Best Used Tube Based Preamp $2k Or Under?

As the title says, I am pondering my best options for purchasing a tube based preamp for $2k or under. Must have a remote! 

 

Your opinions, thoughts, and expertise would be greatly appreciated. If I was spending more, I would know most of the best choices, but I'm on unfamiliar ground at this price limit. But sometimes, you can only do what you can do. 

Thanks for any help. 

nightfall
car123's avatar
car123
127 posts
 

Glad you picked up a pre-amp that you are happy with! I’ve had 3 Joule pre-amps, all supremely reliable. I let my LA 100 go and really wish I had kept it. It was magical with my music reference RM-10, a great little EL 84 amp that I can't imagine ever parting with. I currently have two Joule pre-amps.

 

I’ve also has 3 Joule amps and they were superb, but they can be a little noisy. I’m currently running as an amp a First Watt Sit-3, which is a great match for my Quintessence prototype Shadow speakers.

nightfall OP
224 posts
 

That Sit-3 is a wonderful amp. I've nearly owned one once or twice, and might still, at some point!

nightfall OP
224 posts
 

car123's avatar

car123

127 posts

 

Don't forget Joule Electra.  Jud is gone but Rich at Signature Sound can repair/upgrade as needed, but they are as reliable as tanks.  Used LA-150s rarely come up for sale but, given that the company is no longer in business, you can get used joule gear at steep discounts when it does come up.  I happily ran a 150 for years before upgrading to a LA-300, truly and end game preamp. 

 

The Joule gear is quite special.

 

I have a 150 in my closet.  If any interest, feel free to send me a message. 

 

If I had seen your comment before I bought the Triode Labs Au Pre, I absolutely would have been in contact. Thanks for making me aware. 

More to discover