2. amps-preamps
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Tubed preamp suggestions?

Well I've finally decided to sell my Supratek Syrah. I loved it but the phono stage just wasn't for me. My AT 440ml MM was overloading it and I'm just not commited enough to vinyl for that good of a phono stage. The plan now is to get a nice tubed linestage and pair it with a high quality outboard phono stage that offers both mm and mc inputs. That would work with my current cartridge and allow for future upgrades. Some units I'm considering are the Joule Electra LA-100 MKIII and the Herron VTSP1A. They both sound appealing to me, the preamp will be paired with my Cary 300B Signature monos and Alon Lotus speakers. Either one of these linestages better, or better with my setup? Any others that I should be considering. This seems as if it's going to be a slow process since I can't seem to get any sellers respond to questions or potential offers! It's really strange, I've emailed 4 different people and have yet to get a single response. Ah well, it just gives me more time to ponder and solicit some opinions from you guys. Let 'em fly! And happy new year to everyone!!
128x128jond
flg2001's avatar
flg2001
543 posts
 
I have not seen the CAT mentioned here, one of it´s nice features is the phono stage.

Other route considering atention is a First Sound preamp with an outboard phono stage.

Fernando
jond's avatar
jond OP
5,883 posts
 
Thanks again everybody but I've come to a decision. Just closed a deal for a Herron VTSP1A line stage and I am also going to pick up a Camelot Tech Lancelot Pro battery powered mm/mc phono stage. This should give me great sound and decent flexibility. I'm very excited and should have all the new gear here by the end of next week. Happy new year everyone!
metralla
945 posts
 
Jond, it will be very interesting to hear your report. I was particularly brief with my comments, but Ecclectique read my mind and said in detail what I was thinking. Anyway, the deal is done and we await your impressions.

Regards,
dannoh
2 posts
 
Upscale Audio is selling these pre-amps at what seems to be a pretty good price. Anybody know anything about this model?
Also, I seem to remember something about connecting the cd player to the tape loop of the pre-amp for a better sound. Any suggestions?
jond's avatar
jond OP
5,883 posts
 
Dannoh what preamps are you referring to? We need a brand name and model designation. As far as the tape inputs go, I concur, on all of my preamp I've run my cd player (primary source) in through the tape inputs bypassing the selector switch for a more direct signal path. The result seems to be a touch more transparency with no drawbacks.
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