Joule Preamps?

Pubul57,

In the same general family you might like the Atma-Sphere MP-1, which I use in combination with the VSM-MX/BBAM and a BAT VK75SE. The Atma is extended and resolving at the frequency extremes & well developed in the midrange without being lush.

Clio09, I have found what you say to be very true in this hobby, and I do suspect the best solution may be in my possession. My "quest" for a "warmer" tube pre is due to the very neutral nature of the CAT JL2, and for that matter than Merlin VSM. When I had the CAT Ultimate (a wonderful pre)I felt as if the two CATs were a bit to much of a good thing - very neutral - and hoped for some touch of warmth. Interestingly, I thought think the Placette is a bit warmer, while being exceptionally transparent. I have heard that the LA-150 MKII is a more fleshed out (warmer) version of MKI, while remaining neutral. Problem is, without a 30-day trial, in your own system and room, it is always a bit of a risk. Dgarretson, the Atmasphere is also on my short list. I have owned the CAT ULtimate and the Lamm LL2 - and of course these are both wonderful units. I suspect I'll experiment a bit more, but in the end, Clio9 may be right. The Placette Active is one great piece.

Pubul57, I totally understand what you are saying. I own Spendor 1/2e speakers and they are neutral, so going from a Joule LA-100 MkIII to a K&K TVC had me a bit worried that I would lose too much of the magic in my system. Well it turns out I was wrong. While I did lose a bit of the magic, I certainly made up for it in spades with transparency, detail and frequency balance.

I love the Joule LA-100 MkIII, I'm sorry I sold mine, I will own another one some day (or maybe an LA-150 MkII). However, if I do buy another Joule, the TVC isn't going anywhere. I learned my lesson the first time around.

Clio9, Interesting. I expect you have not heard the Placette Active, which is essentially passive with a robust buffering section (10 ohm output impedance!). I do wonder what you would think about that comapred with your TVC (I have been thinking about the Bent NOH as well). I might end up have the Joule and a Placette - seems terribly self indulgent, but getting rid of the Placette would be awfully hard. Thanks for your comments. Paul.

Paul, yes I also feel it's a bit self indulgent, but listening to a lot of different components makes the hobby fun. Right now I rotate a couple of preamps and a few digital sources in my system, not to mention cable swapping.

I did have a chance to hear the Placette active at RMAF. Obviously not the best environment to listen. I suppose if I saw one come up used I may be tempted to try it. Guy certainly has a great reputation so I don't think I'd have much to lose by trying it out.