2. amps-preamps
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First Tube Preamp

I am strongly considering upgrading my preamp from a solid state B&K 10MC Pro to a tube preamp. It will be my first journey into glass and I was looking for some recommendations that will not break the bank and also give me a chance to get my feet wet without having to tinker all the time.
The other system components are a Parasound HCA800 amp, NAD
CD player, Snell EIII speakers and a Sonographe SG-3 turntable with Grace 707 arm and Micro Benz cartridge. I have a large vinyl collection and most listening involves LP's.
I would appreciate any input while I'm trying to decide which way to go.
grado2000
pauly
1,012 posts
 
Grado, you don’t mention the size of your bank ... but there are a number of tube pre’s out there that have excellent phono stages that see now and again on Audiogon. Have a look at http://www.high-endaudio.com/RC-Preamplifiers.html. for some ideas.

regards
Paul
Ag insider logo xs@2x
uru975
684 posts
 
If you can find one a Conrad-Johnson PV11 is a great tube preamp. It is usually around 700 on the Gon. I used one for years with my Sonagraph SG-3 turntable with a Sumiko LMT arm. Still use the turntable and see no reason to change. Anything else C-J makes I can also recomend, right now I am using their Premier 16.
BTW the PV11 comes with a very nice phono stage
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