2. amps-preamps
  3. 1104446446

Tubed preamp suggestions?

Well I've finally decided to sell my Supratek Syrah. I loved it but the phono stage just wasn't for me. My AT 440ml MM was overloading it and I'm just not commited enough to vinyl for that good of a phono stage. The plan now is to get a nice tubed linestage and pair it with a high quality outboard phono stage that offers both mm and mc inputs. That would work with my current cartridge and allow for future upgrades. Some units I'm considering are the Joule Electra LA-100 MKIII and the Herron VTSP1A. They both sound appealing to me, the preamp will be paired with my Cary 300B Signature monos and Alon Lotus speakers. Either one of these linestages better, or better with my setup? Any others that I should be considering. This seems as if it's going to be a slow process since I can't seem to get any sellers respond to questions or potential offers! It's really strange, I've emailed 4 different people and have yet to get a single response. Ah well, it just gives me more time to ponder and solicit some opinions from you guys. Let 'em fly! And happy new year to everyone!!
128x128jond
sonofnorway
62 posts
 
You might want to investigate the Kora Eclipse, a tubed preamp with a built-in phono stage with 2 inputs, one for MM and one for MC.
nutella
223 posts
 
I have the LA100 Mk III and feel that it is a great preamp. I know that it likes a high input impedance on an amp, 100,000 ohms or higher to perform at its best. So it should be great with your 150,000 ohm input of the Cary. Check out the soundstage review of the preamp for some comparisons to other highly regarded preamps. Their comparisons are pretty accurate.
joman
167 posts
 
I would also suggest looking at the BAT line of preamps. Swampwalker went from a 3i to the Supratek, you might ping him and get his perspective as well.
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