2. amps-preamps
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Recommend relatively obscure high end tube preamps

Just wondering whether people can offer advice on high end preamps worth auditioning. I am looking for those who have experience with more esoteric and expensive equipment (MSRP >5000). I've owned Wavac (never should have sold it) and now own the Aesthetix Callisto Signature. I've owned BAT, CJ, ARC so I'm not looking for answers on things you can readily find.

One that comes to mind is the Brinkmann Marconi. Any opinions?

What else is out there?

~ William
classicjazz
steelhead
318 posts
 
Buy a Supratek Grange
tubes108
153 posts
 
A while ago I had the newest Viva preamp, phonostage, and their Verona amps in for a listen. The preamp and phonostage are each 2 chassis units that have innovative power supplies that use a 300B tube as a rectifier. Great build quality, very reliable, fabulous looks, and man, the performance captured my soul. The current Viva products are highly worth a listen and consideration. See Viva website. Certainly the Viva Linea 45 fits your requirement of a highend preamp that is esoteric and in your price range.
oneprof
147 posts
 
Tron Syren.
classicjazz OP
153 posts
 
Just looked up the Tron. Doubt I'd fine a unit here but from what I have read, it would be worth finding.

Also ASR looks interesting, although I don't think it is a tube unit.
oneprof
147 posts
 
Highwater Sound (Jeff Catalano) distributes the Tron in the US. He's in NYC. Might be worth a call or email. I have the Tron Comet, the Syren's 'baby brother' (although I don't think the COmet is made anymore).
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