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Too excited not to share - TRL Dude tubed preamp

Category: Preamps

I am a 20-year audiofool and thought I had really heard most of what was possible in a home stereo system. I have owned several highly regarded tube and SS preamps costing up to $12,000 new, but this new DUDE preamp from TRL is an absolute sonic breakthrough.

As I listen to music tonight I must say that I am completely overcome with the DUDE. This preamp is the absolute top of the audio chain in terms of sound. If you were to ask me in what ways it is better or what about it makes it the best I have heard, I would be at a loss for words. Why? Because it is not one or two things, rather it is everything. It opens music in my dedicated audio cave in ways I did not think were even possible or attainable.

I know this intro sounds hyped, but it is my honest and actual experience with the new TRL amps - both power and now preamp. I am going to write a full review as I listen to more and more of my collection and the DUDE burns in fully. These are exciting days for me in audio.

Other owners please chime in as the Audiogon cummunity must know more about this breakthrough amp. The DUDE simply transends descriptions like body, texture, organic, extended, natural and commands more - much more. I guess it must be experienced.

I know one easy way for me to explain my experience. When you listen to live amplified music in a great accoustic setting the music is huge, dramatic, full of impact/ energy and is in utter control no matter how loud. The sound is bold and totally uncompressed. Full bodied with detail and texture. You feel the music and it is a live experience. This is the sound of my home stereo now because of the DUDE preamp and 225 power amp.

When I go back to other "well regarded" amps it sounds like a stereo - a puny stereo. Emphasis on puny folks. That is the bottom line description.

The DUDE is MUSIC.

Happy in MN

Bill
128x128grannyring
grannyring's avatar
grannyring OP
6,512 posts
 
Roxy54,

Small company of Paul and his brother. Each one hand made and no time to mess with things like a website. I suggest you call Paul and talk to owners like myself.

He does no advertising and sells by word of mouth really. Paul is working hard on the Dude and 225 right now.

Enjoy!
grannyring's avatar
grannyring OP
6,512 posts
 
I heard about Paul from another owner - word of mouth. I am lucky I did. Read through the comments here on Agon and see several others are also saying exactly what I have shared here and on other posts. I love music and this hobby. It is a passion of mine. I feel compelled to let others know about this ground breaking gear at reasonable prices.
rx8man's avatar
rx8man
1,484 posts
 
Hi Bill,

I talked to Paul a couple weeks ago about the 225 amps, this preamp seems to the real deal ?

I'd like to get some picture(s) of the Dude preamp if possible ?

I emailed you off-line for further details.

BTW, nice review, seems very convincing !
jes45
293 posts
 
Just wait until you hear the new M225.

Let's just say that my old Mono blocks are going back to TRL, ...

You are in for a huge surprise. :)
rja's avatar
rja
2,371 posts
 
I love these small companies that come up with killer stuff without multi million $$ R&D budgets!!! The only explanation is a thorough understanding and commitment to what they're doing. Makes me feel good.
BTW: Grannyring, where in MN do you live?
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