2. amps-preamps
  3. 1444499594

Best Option In A Tube Preamp $1,800 Or Less - Used

As the title says, I am looking for my best option in a tube preamp with an $1,800.00 price limit. I would be buying used to maximize purchasing power and value.

This will be paired with a First Watt F6 power amplifier. This is a wonderful amp, and with the right dose of tube magic from a pre, should make a great combination. I would appreciate your thoughts on my best potential choices which will add the golden glow of tubes to this scenario. Thanks for any assistance.
nightfall
jond's avatar
jond
5,838 posts
 
Nightfall,
If you can stretch your budget, or perhaps negotiate with the seller a bit, this:

https://app.audiogon.com/listings/tube-don-garber-fi-evolution-preamp-2015-09-13-preamplifiers-v7e-2b9

Fi preamp is a great sounding unit and closet to your budget, it's pretty no frills but great sounding and made by Don Garber a real legend when it comes to making tube gear. Zero affiliation with the seller. Good luck and happy listening!
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
You should be able to find a Modwright line stage for less than that.
honeyooi
124 posts
 
My recommendation try primaluna dialogue series ,or if can find the premium is better.
kennesawjet
203 posts
 
modwright, Conrad Johnson pv 12, premier 16 and 17, vtl 3.5 and 5.5 would be my reccomendations.....
srosenberg's avatar
srosenberg
209 posts
 
I agree with the Modwright recommendations. I'm still getting to know a recently acquired SWL9.0SE but am VERY impressed with this piece already. It takes a pair of 5687 (or equivalent) tubes, so tube rolling is relatively inexpensive - Bendix 6900 withstanding. A pair of Amperex (Holland) 7119's won't set you back much $$ and impart that wonderful 'golden glow of tubes' as you say to the presentation. Very highly recommended.
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