2. amps-preamps
  3. 165426-158638

Tube Preamp Recommendations

I’m looking to get a tube preamp in the near future. Budget is $1k, but might go up to $1.5k. The Freya+ is one that I’m considering. What else is out there in my price range? The preamp will be fed by a SMSL SU-9 DAC. My amp is an upgraded Quad 405, which I recently acquired, and the speakers are AR Classic Series 18.
terrapin77
terrapin77 OP
87 posts
 
Thanks George!  I will check out the Sys.  The only reason I'm going DAC into amp right now is the buzzing from the 66 is annoying AF!! I wonder if it's the SU-9 causing it.  Wish I had a spare DAC to test. 
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 
@terrapin77, could the buzzing just be a ground loop? Try a cheater plug and if that doesn't work, ask Rogue before giving up on the Magnum. Cheers.
Spencer
schubert
7,386 posts
 
+1 for the Van Alstine , only 1 tube but still is "tubey" .

His service is the  best  I have ever had in 50 years .
Ag insider logo xs@2x
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I picked up a refurnished/upgraded Modwright SWL 9.0 Line Stage from Dan Wright, and I couldn't be happier.

Just another thing to think about.

Regards,
Dan
rocray's avatar
rocray
1,448 posts
 
Aric Audio. Reasonable prices,great products. No affiliation,just a very happy customer.  I have an older Unlimited preamp,that I am currently running with a First Watt J2, with wonderful results.  I also swap in a First Watt F5. The real nice feature on his pre's is the  adjustable gain. The F5 doesn't have as much gain as the J2,so a little week of the adjuster,and bingo, I'm in business. 
More to discover