Opinions on preamps

Bkonig- I have a custom built passive preamp and I also own
a SFL-2. If you're hearing "grung", then your SFL-2 needs new tubes, adjustment or it's defective.

I'm sure your VAC is a 65 watt powerhouse(for $14K it should rock your world), but like it or not it can't generate much current into a 4 ohm load. If your speakers are rated at 4 ohms, you can bet they dip below that level.

But hey, if it's floats your boat, you should unload the SFL-2/Klyne and buy the VAC Signature Preamp w/phono and complete the deal. Mixing active components from different manufacturers is always tricky.

Stick with what works best for you.

Good luck with your quest.

Aloha.

I don't think the naysayers about the VACs power rating have heard this amp. It actually has 3 speaker taps: 1-2 ohms, 4-8 ohms, and 8-16 ohms. The power rating is stable at any of these taps. I have heard it on my Aerius i (89dB, 4 ohm nominal), and it is VERY powerful. I can't ever get the volume dial on my preamp past 11 o'clock.

The VAC, according the Kevin Hayes, is sensitive, and needs a preamp that has LOW gain, ideally around 10dB.

Try the Placette active. No gain, as transparent and clear as all get-out, but no "tube sound". Seriously, I think this may well get you exactly what you are looking for, unless you are married to having tubes in the preamp position.

I also second the First Sound suggestion.

Though I haven't heard one yet, you should atleast check out the "preamp deal of the century" thread (or something along that lines) re the Supratek is said to outperform all pre-amps regardless of price.