The future of preamps

12-24-13: Audiolabyrinth
I have a problem with 32 volts out-put, although Ralph has gain controls outside of the signal, I want to know if that is a control to the output volts, My amp is fully driven at 3.58 volts!, clipping is 18 volts, an explosion!

The 32 volt number could be 1000 volts and you still wouldn't have a problem. That is the highest voltage the preamp is CAPABLE of putting out, which as Ralph and I both indicated several times earlier in the thread should be (and usually is, for most high quality preamps) MUCH greater than the highest voltage it would ever be required to put out in normal use.

The M-1 is spec'd as providing 14 db of gain, for line-level (non-phono) inputs. Which means that with the volume control turned all the way up the output voltage will be 5.01 times greater than whatever voltage is provided to it by a line-level source, at any given moment. Turning down the volume control would reduce that level as necessary.

Also, once again, clipping is not 18 volts. Perhaps that number just applies to the input circuit of the amp, or perhaps the person who provided that number is confused. But since the output of the amp is spec'd as being able to provide a maximum of 84 volts rms, and the gain of the amp is spec'd at 26.4 db, per a calculation I provided earlier in the thread (on 12-13-13) the output of the amp will clip when the input voltage exceeds approximately 4.02 volts.

Regards,
-- Al

Audiolabyrinth,
There are certainly very worthy contenders in the realm of premium level tube preamplifiers. I won't attempt any effort to rank them or declare a"best", just too many variables ( system, personal taste) are involved.
I can give you a starting point "short list" of some that have gotten repeated universal praise on the forums by happy owners. Alphabetically,
1, Atma-Sphere MP-1
2, Coincident Statement Line stage
3, TRL DUDE ( with Duelund CAST caps )
4, VAC Signature MK II
Believe there are more, I metioned these as Ive heard all four (own the Coincident) and could recommend them without hesitation. Each one will have their own enthusiastic advocates touting their many virtues.
Another thing, these four are by High End standards reasonably affordable new or used.

A good friend has the Absolare Passion Signature line stage that I've heard many times and is truly superb. But it's ultra expensive and would compete with the Robert Koda or Lamm Reference cost wise.
Take your time,
there are excellent choices available for tube preamps.
Charles,

Hi Swampwalker,
Those sure are some special speakers you'll be listening to. When you have the time let me know how they sound driven by the Coincident (Frankenstein or the prior model 300b amp Israel made?).
Charles,

Audiolabyrinth,
The Lamm I cited above should have been the LL1 Signature model and not the Reference line stage.

I am all ears for Swampwalker's report back, as well :)