2. amps-preamps
  3. 1334705605

Another what preamp to get thread

Was going to go down the Quad 33 or PAS 3 road but decided for that price I could spend little more and buy something more modern like an ARC LS-1, LS-9, SP-9, Cary SLP308 or save some $$ and get Jolida 5t. I have never heard any of these except for some other Jolida models.

Wanted to connect to my classdaudio SDS-470 amp driving my Maggies 1.6. Although the amp is a touch warm I am seeking something warmer and was originally leaning towards LS-1 but there is hardly anything on the web.

Currently using a Botthelead Quickly as a preamp.

So it has to be tubed, warm and remote would help with my arthritis. Preferably under $700.

thx in advance
nevillewoo
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
If you are looking for a warm tube preamp you should steer clear of ARC. Look at Conrad Johnson or Cary.
rrog
1,958 posts
 
The SP-9 got bad reviews, but back then Audio Research hybrids were new and SP-9 owners and reviewers were treating them like tube preamps turning them off after an evening of listening. However, the hybrids need to be left on continuously for the best sound. The SP-9 and LS-1 originally came with Chinese 6DJ8H tubes which last about 10,000 hours. Leaving these preamps on 24/7 means replacing the tubes once a year. A small price to pay for the sonic benefits. Being almost all solid state these preamps need 3 days of warm up anyway. Many people find this hard to believe until they try it.
singleendedsingle
664 posts
 
A friend is using the McCormack ALD-1..all i can say is wow.
nevillewoo OP
4 posts
 
Well I broke down and got an ARC Sp5 for $250, but suspect based on comments here it will be bright. I do have an opportunity for an SP9 but after reading Stereophile review, I am not so sure. I do have a Quicksilver line preamp remote version available to me for $690 - any thoughts on this?

thx for your input so far.
slikric3000
638 posts
 
$250, cool, I would buy it too. I have too much pocket change.
More to discover