2. amps-preamps
  3. 1364620573

So what's a good preamp?

I know that's a broad question but I've been using a series of passive preamps for the past 12 years and now I have an amp (Joule Stargate SET) that really like to have an active preamp ahead of it. I'm really not sure where to start. Budget is $1500 or less probably used and I only listen to vinyl so bells and whistles are not an issue-- if there was such thing as an active single input preamp, that could be great. I'm just not sure where to start looking, although I'm sort of interested in the ARC SP16 because I've been told that it has a nice neutral sound by some friends. My priorities are versatility because I listen to lots of different music from jazz to folk to electronic/dance to soundtracks.
dhcod
zd542
5,339 posts
 
Since you listen to vinyl only, I assume you have an active phono stage. You may want to consider upgrading that instead. I say this because you know the value of a passive line stage. $1500 is a hard price point to work with, even for a used active preamp.

I'm not saying that you can't get anything good. Depending on what you like, it may be possible; just difficult. If it were me, I wouldn't get anything without trying it in my system first.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Well, I sort of agree with Zd542. It would be tough to find a preamp worthy of your amps for under $1500.

That being said, I have two suggestions. I do see a Joule Electra LA-100 that is currently for sale on Audiogon for under $1200. There might be some good synergy with your Joule Electra amps. The other option would be to look for a used Audible Illusions L1 or L2. That's probably your best bang for the buck at that price range.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,710 posts
 
Check out the E.A.R. 834P. A few are listed here.
grimace
624 posts
 
See if you can find a used Emotive Audio (*NOT* Emotiva) Poeta, or it's predecessor the Erato. Very simple - a selector and volume knob - and really terrific sounding.
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