When I think of Preamp and Solid State and Sweetness,the first piece I think of is Vintage Classe.. The Classe 5 and 6 perhaps...I always thought that the Classe 5 was one of the best S/State preamps that Classe ever made...Usually $800-$1000 for a nice used one..I am sure there are others that will aslo fill the bill..The Classe was one I owned and can vouch for in your price range...
Sweetest SS preamp for Classical?
I am thinking seriously about replacing my Modulus 3a with a solid state, full-function (i.e. phono) preamp. I listen almost exclusively to classical music and would prefer recommendations from others who do likewise. I do not believe that people who listen to acoustic music are after the same sound as those who listen to electronically generated or modified sound.
I find that, ultimately, no matter how much all other considerations are important (e.g. dynamics, soundstage, detail, grain or veiling, etc. etc.), what matters most to me is instrumental timbre and smoothness. No, that does not mean that I will accept a congealed closed-down sound as long as it's mellow; but, knowing that compromises are necessary, I will opt for the compromise that offers the "sweetest" sound.
Since it is not possible for me to hear most of the preamps I might actually buy, I am asking for advice regarding best ones to check out for, say, about the cost (used) of my used AA Modulus (c.$1000).
While I appreciate all responses, I would really like something from classical listeners and more than just, "My Scooby-Doo Nuclear Preamp sounds real good."
I find that, ultimately, no matter how much all other considerations are important (e.g. dynamics, soundstage, detail, grain or veiling, etc. etc.), what matters most to me is instrumental timbre and smoothness. No, that does not mean that I will accept a congealed closed-down sound as long as it's mellow; but, knowing that compromises are necessary, I will opt for the compromise that offers the "sweetest" sound.
Since it is not possible for me to hear most of the preamps I might actually buy, I am asking for advice regarding best ones to check out for, say, about the cost (used) of my used AA Modulus (c.$1000).
While I appreciate all responses, I would really like something from classical listeners and more than just, "My Scooby-Doo Nuclear Preamp sounds real good."
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