2. amps-preamps
  3. 1424229756

Help Me Choose a Preamp

Looking for a two channel preamp to mate up with my Muse 175 monoblocks (driving Martin Logan SL3s, about to be replaced with PSB Synchrony 1s), which I believe has an input impedance of 51K. Lack of a phono stage is not a deal breaker, and remote volume & a home theater processor bypass would be nice, but neither is a must. Knowing that I can't have it all, I value a transparent 3D midrange and big soundstage over great top and bottom extension.

My budget is around $700. so I'm thinking an Adcom GFP-750 or ARC LS3 might be ideal. I do like the idea of tubes, but I've been away from the hobby for twenty years, so I don't really know what is good in that range.

Thanks for any guidance.

Bobby
countrysquire
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Very true Atmasphere , but Pas 3's hardly show up on here anymore.
The Musica Bella from Response Audio on here now at $850. looks like a good bet.
countrysquire OP
4 posts
 
Thanks guys. I've heard others talk about freshened up PAS-3s over the years, are they THAT good? I certainly like the idea of a great piece of vintage gear.
analogluvr
859 posts
 
I would go with audible illusions
lou_setriodes's avatar
lou_setriodes
688 posts
 
Yes they are. I had a Music Reference RM5 mk II that I sent back for a minor mute circuit repair and got a PAS 3 to hold me over until the repair was done. When I got the MR back, I preferred the PAS much better. A modded/updated one will be far less than your budget and should be readily available on that other auction site.

If you don't go with the PAS, there are lots of other tube preamps you can consider as well.
bojack
655 posts
 
You'll never get an Audible Illusions M3A for $700, and that's the one to look for if you go for AA. The difference between the 3 and 3A is night and day, as the volume controls on the 3A are what give this pre its AWESOME soundstage.
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