Best Full-Function Preamplifier

All helpful discussion and suggestions so far. I agree (conceptually) that placing it all in one box has advantages, thus the question. I'll take a closer look at the units mentioned.

It depends on whether you're looking for a fancy piece of gear so you can impress people, or just want a good preamp so you can listen to the music. I say don't waste your money. Find an Apt Holman preamp, have it gone over and then enjoy the music for around $1k. Two phono inputs, both MM, one with adjustable capacative loading. Tuner input plus two Aux; two tape monitors plus External Processing Loop and two outputs. Not beautiful but, in my opinion, an exceptional piece of gear.

@vinylshadow re:Townshend Allegri Reference Passive Preamp

Do you have experience with that or have you owned it? I am very intrigued by it. I have a good passive line stage that I used for years up until about 6 years ago. I still own it and it’s a backup. What can you tell me about the Townshend? I was interested in the Tortuga passives but they apparently have stopped selling them assembled and only sell some kits.

Thanks!

@patrickdowns 

I've recently purchased it after reading several reviews and talking to John Hannant at Townshend. 

I am still in the middle of a big system upgrade including the ASR Basis phono pre and many Townshend cables and Seismic Isolation devices so unfortunately I have not utilized the Allegri yet. 

The Passive nature was a big selling point but the reviews that I continue to read are Stellar. I guess I projected my anticipation in my OP....

Good luck!!

@vinylshadow — Excellent! I look forward to reading about your impressions of the Allegri. 

I have also been intrigued by the Townshend seismic isolation platforms for my speakers, but they are too expensive to buy without trying. I wish for a demo pair!

Cheers