2. amps-preamps
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Looking for a GREAT preamp under $2000...thoughts?

I have a system that is mostly from the mid-90's and I'm upgrading it piece by piece. Just ordered the Gallo Reference 3.5's with sub amp, bought a Graham Slee ERA Gold Reflex phono preamp, and found a second NAD 214 amp for extremely cheap on ebay ($100), (so I can bridge it with my current NAD 214). Before upgrading the amp and turntable (Goldring GR2), I'd like to look at doing an upgrade on the preamp. What can I get either used or new for around $2000 that will blow me away? I think it's prefer solid state over tube, but I'm open to suggestions
mountainpics
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,479 posts
 
Bel Canto Pre3 is amazing and will delight you! $1,000 used....
french_fries
815 posts
 
ROWLAND CONSUMMATE (USED). outboard power supply, bal. in/out, best metal remote control with fast/slow volume adjustments (200 steps). very tough to beat for $1800 (sometimes less). only problem is the display becomes dim after awhile- annoying but inconsequential as you can turn it off anyway, or send it to the factory to be refurbished. 2nd problem- in another league from NAD.
timlub
2,039 posts
 
I agree with Grannyring on the Bel Canto... a Previously enjoyed Coda CL or CP has a very similar flavor to the Bel Canto.
Depending on taste, many folks like the Classe CP50/60/65
If you NAD's are balanced (only if balanced) the Audio Research LS-9 is alot bang for the buck.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,417 posts
 
The Rogue Perseus can be had for about $1800 new. It uses (2) 12AU7 tubes (very low noise). A very neutral, open sounding preamp with wide soundstage.
Not trying to sell you one, just saying with your budget you can afford tubes.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,198 posts
 
I am strongly considering a Bel Canto pre-amp in that price range for SS pre-amp.

For a tube pre-amp, the ARC sp-16 is very good (when the tubes are as well) and can come in well under $2000 used.
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