Preamps are hard, probably the most difficult component to get right. SS are either dark-sounding or sibilant. Tubes can be very good, but can also be lacking in dynamics or LF extension/tightness.
My own reference is an old Mark Levinson #38 with extensive mods. This thing is bullet-proof, balanced in and out, remote controlled, .1 dB volume increments and 7 ohms output impedance. Totally programmable and somewhat intelligent. Sounds dark before mods though. Afterwards, it beats every SS pre I have heard, including the Pass.
Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer
My own reference is an old Mark Levinson #38 with extensive mods. This thing is bullet-proof, balanced in and out, remote controlled, .1 dB volume increments and 7 ohms output impedance. Totally programmable and somewhat intelligent. Sounds dark before mods though. Afterwards, it beats every SS pre I have heard, including the Pass.
Steve N.
Empirical Audio
Manufacturer