All of the Audio Research LS models recommended have rca and xlr inputs and outputs. You are not restricted to balanced only.
Phil
Best Options For A Tubed Preamp - $2500 Or Less, Preferably Used To Maximize Value
As the title says, I'm interested in your thoughts on what are the ebst options for a tube based preamp, $2500 or under. I generally buy used to maximize what I can get. Definitely prefer a warmer sound signature, but not to the degree where details and impact are lost.
What are the best values out there, in this price range, in your opinion? Any expertise, perspectives and experience greatly appreciated. Thanks.
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- 58 posts total
@nightfall the ARC LS-25 is an outstanding preamp and offers gain adjustment and will work well with 180kohm input imp amplifier. Might be worth looking into it if you can spot one used. But sounds as if the XLRs aren’t a requirement. You then have CJ and even Rogue RP5 in that price range. |
If you can wait for it to pop up used -- and it does -- the deHavilland Ultraverve III is in the price range and very much worth the wait. Possibly of interest https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/don-sachs-2-vs-dehavilland-ultraverve-3 |
Ditto @hilde45 deHavilland Ultraverve III is the best preamp I have owned by a large margin, bettering previous preamps from CJ, Aesthetix and BAT. It responds wonderfully to tube rolling the 6SN7 tube (or 6F8G with an adaptor). |
- 58 posts total