2. amps-preamps
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Recommendations please for good, affordable pre-amp for system?

Hi All, 

I'm configuring my first system, and have so far acquired the speakers (Thiel 3.6) and amp (Bryston 4B SST). I believe I need a preamp to complete this (and I believe only a preamp, right?). And I'm hoping you can give me some leads, information, and recommendations.  It's a 2-channel setup, and while it would be nice to add some HT capability in the future, I'm seeking as pure a sound as possible.

Some things I've looked at are Theta Casablanca, Bryston 0.5B, and perhaps for future upgrades, model Rotel RSP-1582 and Marantz AVR8802 -- although I'm concerned that those latter two, while brining nice features, will work to molest the signal.

Prime listening will be CD, with some lossless Network-attached storage, and Airplay with Tidal or otherwise Internet radio.

Thanks for your recommendations!
donzi
topten
74 posts
 
Would you like to try passive pre amplifier.
They are available on Ebay, tube and SS version.
The guy is from Poland and he is using high quality parts
3 inputs and 2 outputs. Totally neutral,
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of steps: 48
Contact material: Hard gold
Polished wiper and contact pins
Extremely short signal path
Channel matching: +/-0.1 dB
Resistance: 10, 20, 50 or 100 kOhm (other values on request)
Resistors: INPUT - Caddock MK132; GND - military Vishay/Dale RN55 1% 100ppm , 1/10W, low noise, non-inductive, metal film

Upgrade options:
Remote control - $200
Vishay Zfoil series resistor - $60
Takman REX shunt resistors - $70



donzi OP
60 posts
 
Topten, what is the difference between active and passive? And can tube be used with a SS amp? What would be the info, or link for this one? 

topten
74 posts
 
WWW.AKUSTYK.COM
mesch
3,506 posts
 
I can’t at the moment think of a $500 preamp that I would pair with the Bryston amp to drive the 3.6s.  Many audiophiles think the preamp to be the heart of a system, having greater influence on the sound of a system than the amplifier. 

You have purchased 2 fine components to a great system. You will need a preamp and source component to compliment for best results.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
SS amp does not require a SS preamp. In fact many folks like to couple a tube preamp with a SS amp. You just have mind the impedance mismatches. It would appear that you would be fine with a preamp with an output impedance under 1K.

That said, looking for a >$500 preamp to mate with that much more expensive amp would seem a bit strange to me. I think your only option would be to go with some passive attenuators.

Other options would include, look for a digital source with volume control to replace your current one, or look for a integrated amp to replace your Bryston amp.

I do agree with mesch, I find the preamp the heart of the system. For me, finding the right preamp can be more difficult than finding the right speakers.
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