2. amps-preamps
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Opinions on preamps

I am considering upgrading my pre amp. My system is as follows:
Sonic Frontiers SFL2
VAC Renaissance 70 MKlll
Klyne 7 PX3.5 phono
Verity Parsifal Encores
Basis Debut
Graham 2.0
Clearaudio Accurate
Dedicated room with much attention to details (wires, set up, isolation)

The weak link in my system is the SFL2 preamp. I am considering the following:
BAT 30SE
BAT 50SE
Wyetech Opal
Hovland
Emotive Sira

Anyone familiar with these items.
Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated

Thank You
bkonig
dennis_the_menace's avatar
dennis_the_menace
467 posts
 
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.
dennis_the_menace's avatar
dennis_the_menace
467 posts
 
The VAC, according the Kevin Hayes, is sensitive, and needs a preamp that has LOW gain, ideally around 10dB.
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drubin
3,274 posts
 
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.
jman
99 posts
 
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.
kana813
956 posts
 
Dennis_the_mence- You're a hoot.

"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."

Now you know why you can get the volume control past 11 o'clock.

Volume setting have nothing to do with power output capability, as Mr. Hayes has shown you.

Aloha.
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