Mapletree Audio versus Decware preamps

One thing (of many) I like abuot Mapletree is custom gain for each input. This way you can match your gear to play at half volume knob travel - some say the best place.

Decware has that same facility, giving you a gain range from 0v to 36v - Something that should be built into any preamp IMHO, interesting these two guys do it in their <$1000 preamps.

Rockadanny,

If I am not mistaken, you have owned the Mapletree pre for sometime now. That says something right there...

Finsup,

Yes. Products not up to my idea of good sound get the ziggy quickly. As soon as I dropped the Mapletree into my system I could tell it was special (for me/ my system). Clear, relaxed, full sound. I've yet been tempted to have it replaced and the funny thing is, it is THE least expensive piece (retail) in my whole system.

Separate power supply, point-to-point wiring, simple yet well engineered circuit with schematics provided, sensitive to tube rolling, great sound, cool looks, personal contact with helpful and personable designer/builder before the sale for proper customization, and well after sale customer service, 30 day trial ... all for well under $1k new. What's not to like?

Ordered a 2A SE from Dr. Lloyd - RCA Red and Black trim, Blackgate capacitor upgrade - simply seems like a 0 BS product. I've owned some the finest and most expensive preamps, and I'm very curious to see how this $840 with shipping designed a Professor of Electrical Engineering and an audiophile stacks up against the 5-10K stuff. I suspect I will be pleasantly suprised.