2. amps-preamps
  3. 1435323487

HELP WITH A PREAMP DECISION

Sometimes one just needs to make an upgrade for reasons that are purely emotional. The system is Krell 402e, Veloce LS-1, Esoteric K-01, Revel Salon2, Stealth Indra IC cables, Siltech LS-100 speaker cables.

Just lately for no apparent reason the system sounds a bit harder than it used to. I believe that one's perception of a system changes over time.

I am considering exploring either new or different tubes for the Veloce. But would anyone care to recommend a new preamp for me. Before the Veloce I had a BAT Rex pre and it sounded great, but the Veloce sounded better after a long term audition period of several weeks.

But I am up for a change. . . .recommendations most appreciated.
huntermusic
rzado
175 posts
 
HI Huntermusic,

Is your upgrade limited to consideration of the preamp? Also, what is your budget?

If you are only looking at the preamp (and I am assuming you only need a line stage), some options you may want to consider in the ~$20-25k price range include the SmC VRE-1C, the Doshi Alaap 3.0, and the Constellation Virgo II. For a little on the higher end, the the Ypsilon PST-100 Mk.II may also be worth your consideration.

However, I think you would be better served looking at your speakers, and to a lesser extent, your amp. I think you will get a much bigger bang for your upgrade dollar, and will be able to address the "hardness" that you identified.
jafant's avatar
jafant
19,953 posts
 
Hunter-

did you mate the Krell w/ th B.A.T. Rex?
Your gear looks very good, perhaps a change of cabling?
Either all SilTech or all Stealth?

Keep me posted & Happy Listening!
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 

Hi Huntermusic, your Esoteric K-01 has a very nice low 47ohm output impedance and your Krell has an equally very nice 100kohm input impedance. Perfect recipe for a passive preamp.

You should for peanuts ($49) try out this cheap one first and see what you think, then if you like what you hear and want some thing more esoteric, keep in touch.

http://schiit.com/products/sys

Cheers George

azjake's avatar
azjake
285 posts
 
Go with what Jwpstayman told you...Those two items should be checked FIRST by doing BOTH at the same time!

I have a feeling all other suggestions, though admirable, will not be necessary.

Good luck!
dgstereo
6 posts
 
Have you though about Aesthetix? I have heard them a few times and they always impressed
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