2. amps-preamps
  3. 1055600639

Used tube pre-amp around $1,000

I'm thinking of upgrading my pre amp. I currently have a CJ PV10al & my first instinct would be to go higher up the CJ line. I have a set of Tyler Reference Monitors with matching sub & need another line out of my pre amp. The rest of my system is a DNA-1, Phillips 963SA, Tascam DAT deck with DH Labs, MIT & Analysis Plus cables. I think the system sounds fantastic but want a "little" more detail & larger soundstage.

The problem with staying in the CJ line is the cost. I don't know if the 12 is worth the jump & the 14 is a little more than I care to spend at this time. Are there any choices out there that will provide a marked improvement & keep me around my $1,000 budget? A remote would be a plus but not that important to me. It must have two outs & be tubed.

Audible Illusions seems to top the list in this price range but I hear they are rather tough on tubes. I am also considering adding a turntable to my rig in the future. So what are some great used pre-amps in my budget?
fishwater
ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,162 posts
 
You would do yourself an injustice if you did not investigate the JJ Electronics 243 preamp. Especially if you ever plan to add vinyl to your system. It is an excellent full featured preamp with MC capability and adjustable loading.

www.jj-electronic.sk

Oz
sstark
63 posts
 
AI Mod3, no need for 3A and those hideous stepped attenuators. Get 6H23 tubes from Upscale Audio for about $100. The tubes will last forever and so will that sweet sound.
fishwater OP
178 posts
 
What's the deal with the "hideous stepped attenuators" ?? Everyone seems to be offended by this & why is there a resistor in the CD input? Alot of people like this pre-amp & don't seem to mind these two issues. Does it sound that good?
newbee
4,767 posts
 
Don't overlook the EAR 834L. Great sound - easy to tube. No remote. Minimalist desig. Seen them sell between 650 and 750 on AA. Harry Pearson thought they sounded much like the ARC SP10. Actually they do but the line stage of the SP10 is not as detailed.
lneilb's avatar
lneilb
108 posts
 
What about the Sonic Frontiers Line 1? It is superbly constructed, not overly euphonic, and is one of the most feature laden tube preamps ever built, with the best remote on the planet.
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