I have to agree with the others about the Audio Research preamps. I have owned the LS3, LS7 and now have a LS2B. The LS3 was a GREAT preamp, but for fun (Famous last words!!!) I tried a friends LS7 and I ended up buying one for myself. It uses 4 6922 tubes, so it can be a little pricey to re-tube, but it is worth the bucks to tube roll. I personally liked Bugle Boys.
I have recently changed to a LS2b Mk2 and love it more than the LS7. To me, in my system, is has better bass and the soundstage has better depth. It only uses 1 6922 so I am trying every decent tube I can get a hold of. So far the BB's are still the tubes for me. I run my pre into a Marchand crossover then to 2 Threshold SS amps (HP S300II and LP S150II). For my room and system, this is a very good set up for me.
The LS7's can be had for $550.00 and up, and the LS2's can be had for a little more. Try it, you just might like it! If you don't, they are very easy to resell. Good luck.
I have recently changed to a LS2b Mk2 and love it more than the LS7. To me, in my system, is has better bass and the soundstage has better depth. It only uses 1 6922 so I am trying every decent tube I can get a hold of. So far the BB's are still the tubes for me. I run my pre into a Marchand crossover then to 2 Threshold SS amps (HP S300II and LP S150II). For my room and system, this is a very good set up for me.
The LS7's can be had for $550.00 and up, and the LS2's can be had for a little more. Try it, you just might like it! If you don't, they are very easy to resell. Good luck.