New to Preamp - Preamp suggestion around 10k

@cming0038 

Thanks, you forgot the part were I said that there is also a filter for headphones 🎧 😜😀

@cming0038: I don't believe there is a line-stage only version of the EAR 912, so the 868L would be the EAR to get. It has hookup connections you might like for your Stax-based system: a balanced input (via Tim de Paravicini's renown transformers, on XLR jacks), and two pair each of both balanced and single-ended outputs. Plus excellent sound quality via a pair of 7DJ8 tubes.

@cming0038 @bdp24

So far I’ve only owned the MC SUT’s by EAR (absolutely fantastic SUT’s), but I’ve long been curious about their other tube electronics. Especially their preamps and HP-4 headphone amp. I bet they’re fantastic. If I were to pick another brand to try on a whim, EAR would be atop my list, then Manley :)

Interesting, I didn’t realize the T-8000 had that feature. Must be a volume control bypass intended for DAC’s with a digital control. What you’re trying to achieve here seems reasonable!

Another much cheaper option is to send the Stax headphone to Mitch Barnett and let him create a convolution filter.

https://accuratesound.ca/store/#_filter

@mulveling: David Manley was also active in the Pro Audio sector, as was Tim de Paravicini (Pink Floyd’s studio, Kav Alexander’s Water Lily Records fantastic tape recorder, on which was recorded A Meeting By The River album). I have an old friend (they’re all old ;-) who has a Manley mic pre-amp in his recording studio, and loves it. I’ve spent some time conversing with EveAnna at a coupla CESes and Stereophile shows, and found her to be a very cool, interesting person.