2. amps-preamps
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Preamp Question

I would like recommendations on preamps.  Here's my issue.

I have an Elekit 300B SET amp.  It only has one pair of line level RCA inputs.  I run two different sources--vinyl and digital.  The Elekit does not have a remote. 

I have a Schitt Freya preamp that is really something for the money. It has a remote.  But, my Manley Chinook phono preamp and Doge 7 tube DAC both sound better running direct to the Elekit amp.  The Doge has a volume/attenuator and remote so when I'm using that I'm in good shape.  

So basically I'd like to use a preamp to add remote and 2 line level inputs for convenience either without reducing the sound quality or even improving or changing it for the better.  Budget would be $2-4k new or used is fine. 
128x128jbhiller
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
The preamp I chose is the Grounded Grid kit from Transcendent Sounds. I upgraded it with silver hookup wire, Goldpoint step attenuator and switches, and Bent Audio remote volume control. I also used NOS Amperex 12AU7 tubes, and Clarity Caps output caps. This thing sounds tremendous.

I assume you must have built the Elekit 300B, so if so, this would be a great project for you. The basic kit runs $499. With just a few part upgrades, it's an amazing bargain.

Enjoy, and regards,
Dan 
jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,399 posts
 
Thanks for all the recommendations.  I'm off to research.  Others, please keep them coming!
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,788 posts
 
Tim de Paravicini is well known to be a great designer/engineer (he designed the tube electronics in the analog recorder Kav Alexander uses for his superb Water Lily label albums), yet his EAR-Yoshino amps and pre-amps remain largely ignored by audiophiles. His 868L pre-amp fits your needs, and is occasionally available used for around $3,000. His 912 pre-amp is probably more than you require, and it costs considerably more anyway (one just sold on Audiogon for $8,000).
mrdecibel
3,063 posts
 
A few questions. How did you use the Freya, tube gain, jfet buffer, or passive ? I could understand the sources sounding better direct to the amplifier. Are you happy with the sound of each connected to the amp ? I suppose what I am getting at, would you prefer passive, or active, as the Freya has an amazing volume set up, and if it does not sound good to you, even in passive mode, maybe it is the extra set of interconnects. BTW, I own a Luminous Audio Axiom II, with Walker Mod, single ended, 3 pair in, 2 pair out, with remote for volume, mute, led readout ( six levels ), and, I LOVE IT. Tim Stinson is the man ( owner ) of the company, and is extremely helpful and passionate about music reproduction and customer service, before, during, and after the sale. Enjoy ! MrD.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
I was just looking at your amp. There's plenty of room on the back for another pair of RCA inputs. And no you don't have to mess with the face plate all you need is to be able to switch between the two so you put a simple switch right there in the back corner. 

Let's see... spend $499 to spend 10 hours making a hundred solder connections, or spend $50 (if that) to spend one hour making 4 or 5. 

So save three grand. Plus eliminate the interconnect you won't need. Plus eliminate the power cord you won't need. Plus eliminate the risk of the new pre not sounding as good. Plus best of all now you are a modder, which is measurably proven to be one million times cooler.

Wait- did you say 300B amp? That's tubes. Sorry. Just a sec. Residential fire hazard, lethal voltage factor, carry the three...... okay, what I thought... THREE million times cooler! 
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