Best preamp for Audio Research VT100mkI

I've been using an LS-9 to good effect. They are available for $800 or so (used). The LS-2, especially the LS-2B, is also a great preamp. I've used an LS-1 but thought it had WAY too much gain... -might work if your speakers have very low efficiency.

I second Dweller's opinion. The Audio Research LS 2B should work quite nicely.

The LS2B MKII is markedly better than the MKI. Incidentally, currently I own both the LS25 MKI and the LS2B MKII.

THe LS2B MKII can be purchased for about $995 on the web.

Good luck

The best Pre-amp that I have heard is the Blow Torch. It is a John Curl design. It will work with any amp. Contact Bob Crump at T.G. Audio(rcrump@houston.rr.com) for additional information, if you are interested.

Best wishes and good listening.

Jim

Unless you are planning on upgrading the VT100 to Mk II status, I would look for a fuller sounding pre-amp in the upper bass/lower mids than the LS-2. This of course depends on the rest of your system/room make-up. The MK II upgrade makes the VT-100 a totally different amp IMO. Much better bass and slam and fuller mid range. The LS-2 is also a little light in these areas as well IMO. Have not heard the LS-7 or LS-9. Have seen a couple of Sonic Frontiers SFL-2's out there for about $1250. If you can find one in good working order, that pre-amp is much fuller in the upper bass and offers much greater resolution and soundstaging than the LS-2. Can be a little bright in the treble depending on cabling and other system components though but no more so than the LS-2. The SFL-2 is still a lot of pre-amp for the price. Maybe Kevin Deal can find you one in good working order? Good luck.