Tube Preamps?

I second the Audible Illusions 3A recommendation or the Audible Illusions L-1 if you have an outboard phono preamp. Even though both preamps share the same linestage, I prefer the master gain control with one volume on the AI L-1 rather than two volume controls on the AL 3A. You can expect very good dynamics and transparency with both not to mention top notch sound quality.

The other tube preamp I like after trying many is the VTL 2.5. Try and find one with a tube phono circuit installed.

If you want the classic/warm tube sound, a Conrad Johnson PV-5 or and ARC SP3 would be great. Both ARC and CJ will still support/update these products with their top-flite service.

A friend of mine used a VTL 2.5 with 2C's (he recently moved on to the 3A sigs but kept the VTL in the system).

I would also recommend looking into Quicksilver's line of products. You can usually find their linestages for well under $1000, and I've seen several of their full function preamps go for right around $1000. You could also consider a modified Dynaco PAS-3 from tubes4hifi (VTA).

Exocet,

The AI3 has been on my short list for years...

Lee

I am wavering on how much to spend. My ultimate goal is to be able to play my LPs, and to port them all over to my PC as lossless digital files.

I now have a NAD 1155 preamp, and wonder how much of a difference it would make by saving up for a really good preamp.

Should I spend $100 or $1000? I'm unsure.

Lee

I read all the reviews in Abso!ute Sound, and Stereophile. The models did seem to vary quite a bit. The SP-9 seems to have attained "classic" status, however. As did the LP-12, Quad 63s, etc.

Lee