2. amps-preamps
  3. 1413847665

Primaluna Tube System

Hi. I am currently running a Primaluna Prologue 3 preamp into a vintage McIntosh solid state amp (MC-2105). I have been wanting to go all tube for a while, and thinking of two possible options.

I have an opportunity to buy a Primaluna Prologue 5 locally for $800 to pair with my Prologue 3. Alternatively, I've thought of selling all my equipment and waiting for an opportunity to buy a used Dialogue Premium integrated amp. What I am wondering is what are the advantages of each option. I have heard great things about the Prologue 3/5 combo. Would I be getting a huge improvement in performance, to justify selling my amp and preamp and the additional cost, by jumping to the Dialogue integrated?

My speakers are Vienna Acoustics Hadyn Grand bookshelf. Many thanks for your suggestions.
md30

Showing 2 responses by newbee

newbee
4,789 posts
 
FWIW I used the PL 1 and the PL3 & PL5 combo for about 5 years. Frankly I found the PL1 very pleasant. The 3&5 combo had greater transparency but the PL5 was a tad lighter in the bass, perhaps it was just that it was 'tighter' than the PL1. Good but not great stuff, IMHO.

Like Learsfool I have and use a Dialogue 2 and like it much. Took a little experimenting with power tubes as well as pre-amp tubes to dial in a tone that I wanted so it would match my speakers but it was worth it. It has a nice combo of warmth and transparency. Personally if I could find one used I'd save the $1000+ difference you would have to pay to get the Dialogue Premium and get it.

newbee
4,789 posts
 
Md30, If you want to 'tone' down the highs a bit, you might try some current production Mullard 12AX7's in the pre-amp - if there is no change there you might try them in the amp and see if that makes a difference. If it works in either, you might extend the thought to the other devise and have them in both.

FWIW I'm currently using the Mullards in both of my Dialogue units and they make a difference which is easily audible.

Learsfool, If you are looking for EL34's which are not harsh at all, try the JJ E34L's. I use them in my Dialogue One and they produce an excellent mid range (where all the music resides). :-) Tube depot sells them for 13.99 ea. Doesn't get much cheaper, and they will do a 24hr burn in and matching for 1.50 per tube. I've never tried them in my Two so I really can't predict how they will sound, but I do prefer their tone to my longstand preferred SED EL34 I've used in other amps.

In my Dialogue Two I'm using Tungsol 6550's and the Mullards. With my speakers this produces a nice warm full sound which is both sufficiently revealing AND relaxing. It lets me relax from the audio angst which hangs around my house and just enjoy the music. A winner for me!

I don't find the 12AU positions very critical in Dialogues - I presently use JJ's, EH's, or EI's. Right now I'm using the JJ's.

Hope that helps a bit.
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