SIMPLY AMAZING: Coda Technologies 07x Preamplifier


I have in-house Coda Technologies 07x preamplifier, which is the latest iteration of their '0' series linestages.  Very briefly, over the last seven years I have had over five solid state preamplifiers, price range was between 4K to 20K, in for auditioning in my system.  They were quite good, but lacked what my tube based linestages had to offer.  The solid state pieces were wickedly transparent, micro-detailed, tight accurate bass extension, and had great overall dynamics.  However, they lacked the organic timbres/tonality, 3D imaging, and the ability to create a sense of space between the players that my tube based preamplifiers produced in my system. 

So, I was concerned that based on my personal preferences that the Coda 07x might not be my "sonic cup of tea".  Boy was I wrong!  Besides, the superlative build quality, starting with the double-sided gold-plated circuit boards, and the sane prices Coda charges compared to other much more insanely priced gear, the 07x is priced at $6'500, this preamplifier has patiently shocked me regarding it might be the best synthesis between what solid state offers (transparency-clarity/low frequency extension-control/micro-details/speed-dynamics) and the best of what tubes have to offer (pristine timbres-tonality-color/holographic imaging/three-dimensional sound-staging with a sense of air around the individual instruments).

Coda always, at least in the America "flies under the radar" compared to other US manufacturers, but based on performance, build quality, and  smart evolved engineering they offer cutting edge equipment at reasonable prices that deserve to be heard by more music lovers. I'll get into all the little details in my review on the performance of the 07x, but for right now if you are thinking about purchasing a solid state linestage, consider giving Doug Dale a call to hear this very special piece.
teajay
The 07X is still my main preamp. I have considered replacing it but have yet to do so. The main gripe I have about the unit is it’s incompatibility with the Logitech Harmony remote control. Outside of that, I could see ownership of this unit lasting decades. 
@wturkey what preamps have you compared it to if any?
@desalvo55  The C900U looks incredible. If the 07x was in the same league that would be incredibly impressive.
@wturkey When I bought a used CODA CSiB last week the seller told me there is a surprise in the shipment. It turned out that he has programmed a Inteset remote control to work with the CSiB. After trying the CODA remote control I could see why the previous owner changed to the simpler Inteset remote. I hated the CODA remote after about 10 minutes of usage. Integrated is great though.

Your 07x preamp is on my CODA remotes visual list of supported hardware. So I imagine whatever was done with my unit is applicable on your unit.
@yyzsantabarbara. Thank you for that heads up. Will have to try it out. 
@smodtactical The 07X replaced a PS Audio BHK Preamp. The BHK is a fine unit but to me the Coda stood taller. 
Regarding the negative comments about Coda and Legacy Focus XD speakers a number of posts back based on a youtube video.

I have pretty much the same components; Coda 07x, Coda Continuum No 8 and Legacy Focus XD speakers (bass drivers powered by the internal Legacy amps and mids/highs with the No 8).

A match made in heaven. My only complaint it that the Focus XD speakers are a little bit large for my room, no fault of the Legacys.