Which Counterpoint Preamp SA-5000 or SA- 5.1???

I bought a new 7.1 pre in 1988 and have always had the balance control reliability issue. However, I still think it is a sweet, very musical preamp. simple clean lines, great phono stage (for the price). As a matter of fact, I just retubed it with a pair of Tungsol 12AX7's and Amperex Bugle Boy 6DJ8's. I don't use it much, but when I do, I am still impressed with it's musicality. Now - if I could get my hands on an SA 9 phono stage....

i would suggest running as far as you can from counterpoint.
their reliablity track record isnt the greatest ( all the dealers in san diego stopped carrying them and still dont carry the new line to this day.

hope that helps,

mike

There are those who would disagree. reliability issues aside, Mike Elliott made some of the best sounding phono stages in his 3, 5, and 7 series preamps in the mid 80s. There are a lot of Counterpoint amps, both SS and hybrid still running in a lot of systems to this day, with very satisfied owners, including the stock versions, and Mike's mods done by Altavista. His new line is Aria, and if I'm not mistaken, it is only sold direct via the Internet. Someone correct me if I am wrong. As for dealers dropping the Counterpoint line, they had no choice when the company went bankrupt. Mike Elliott is a great audio man, but at that time, he may not have been as good a business man as an audio man. Altavista is Mike's Counterpoint Mod/repair line and Aria is the name of his new product line. I have no connection to Mike Elliott, either personally or professionally. His 7.1 preamp that I purchased new was an eye opening beginning to the high(er) end of audio. JMHO.

Just to add comment on this. I have always loved Counterpoint sound. I started with SA 3 some 20 years ago. Never, Never had reliability problems.

I have been using Mike upgrades for a while and they are nothing short of spectacular! I have upgraded SA 5000 and it beats pants off of CAT Sig II, Herron and BAT 5i that I also own. Better imaging, overall tonal balance, quiet etc. I listen to Classical and Jazz only. Rock listeners may not have same reaction. Mike is responsive and stands behind his work. It is actually a good thing for us audiophiles that Mike is away from the restrictions of manufacturing Counterpoint and is able to offer a truely unique and valuable service.

I have a 5.1. Go to the Counterpoint site, altavistaaudio.com, and read up on both preamps. The 5.1 appears to be generally regarded as better. They are relatively inexpensive, but in time you will likely have to ship it to Michael Elliott for repairs. My advice- when you experience your first breakdown, save up and get the unit upgraded. Reliability issues are not an issue with the upgrades.