In need of a preamp with a prominent display


Right now my Threshold 400A is paired with Freya+, but the Schiit’s ergonomics suck. It sounds fine but my old eyes want to see prominent visuals of inputs, volume settings, and modes from across the room. So, I want exquisite sound with a “bell and whistle” that’s usually found on the basic consumer offerings. I’m almost ready to drop some larger coin on a MicroZOTL MZ3 unless anyone can suggest a less pricey option.

mushman

Not sure how big of a display you need. PS Audio has their BHK preamp on special for $3500 but it’s out of stock…may be worth waiting. 
Audio Research LS28 is another option but it’s most likely more expensive than $3500 on a used market. 
Solid state Pass XP12 is also a good choice around $3500 used. 
 

 

My Don Sachs D2 pre has a big gaudy display that you can see from a mile away. Fortunately you can turn it off.

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. A great starting point for more homework on my part. I'll soon post what I land on. One reason I was looking at the MicroZOTL is if I leave the country to go live in a warm grass shack somewhere, I can downsize the big speakers and power amps and still have a pretty good headphone amp.

ARC has the best clear, big, bright numeric displays. I just love the look of a big, crisp VFD display. Monochrome in blue or green - MUCH better than LCD or OLED for this use-case, IMO.

One of my pet peeves in the space of 2ch preamps is analog volume knobs with no easily visible (from a distance) marker. 

I think that the MicroZOTL MZ3 is the very limit of my budget. Last I looked it runs about $3700. I can do that, but if some of these other suggestions come in under that and fit my criteria, then I will choose wisely. It's a big decision.

Currently the Threshold is being refurbished at Vintage Amp Repair. When I get it back and again listen with the Freya+, then I hope to have decided on a preamp with the ergos and sound I'm looking for. Everyone has been a great help with your suggestions. I will post my results when I take the new plunge.

A Rogue RP5 has a large display.  You can see everything from across the room. Any Newer McIntosh preamp has the display you want. 

A Rogue RP5 has a large display.  You can see everything from across the room. Any Newer McIntosh preamp has the display you want. 

I'll second the Moon by Simaudio recommendation. Lovely big displays that I can read clear across the room. They sound terrific too.

I would also second the recommendation for Audio Research.  I had an LS27 that I sold chasing the rabbit down the BAT VK-33SE hole.  The display was nice, but there were other things about it I didn't care for, so I went with a LTA MicroZOTL Level 2 preamp, but didn't like the volume display (even at the lowest brightness it was still SO bright in a dark room) plus you couldn't see which input you were on.  Sold that and went with an Audio Research Reference 3 and I think I'm set for a while.  You can see the volume from down the block, it dims to a perfect brightness and it's easy to see which input is active too.

Benchmark LA-4 or their Headphone LA-4 equivalent. HPA-4 I believe. I own for my 2 systems, LA-4's. Made in NY, 30 day trial period, RORY is great to deal with. Reasonably priced, and delivers the goods. Check them out, very highly regarded. 

I do like the Benchmarks but I need more un-balanced inputs (3) than balanced. None of my other peripherals are equipped with balanced outs. Otherwise it would be an easy choice.

Still waiting on the return of my Threshold from its refurbishment. I may have to muddle through awhile with the Freya+ before I pull the trigger on one of the many suggestions.

Thanks to everyone for your help and input. The Audiogon forum is an incredible resource.

I really liked the display and 100 step volume on the BAT also second the Audio Research.