Advice on what preamp to select.

OK so getting back to the original posts question. The answer would be a Adcom 565 pre amp, if you can find one, they are a steal at $300 or less ( a great sounding unit for the money). I think the best Tube based preamp like a Audio Research would work some real magic with those mono blocks. A great sounding tube based pre from McIntosh or AR would set you back many thousands of $$. The Solid state AV Macs you refer to are mediocre at best sounding. Find a Modwright SWL 9.0 or a Manley labs J shrimp or a Dehavilland ultraverve lll, or Doge 8! Get something that will inject some real feeling into those Adcoms and DQ10’s! At a great price too!

http://www.stereomojo.com/Doge%208%20Preamplifier%20Review.htm/Doge8PreamplifierReview.htm


http://www.dehavillandhifi.com/UltraVerve-Preamplifier.htm


http://6moons.com/audioreviews/manley6/jumboshrimp.html


http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649074964-modwright_swl_90_se_preamp_signature_edition_outstandin...

Matt M

thanks all for your input. Like the Vincent but would need a phono section .
What do you think about the Conrad Johnson PV-7?

Have an AR SP9 upgraded past a MK111. The phono is very good. So @ $1100 good value and get it upgraded further down the track if you have a good tech.

Seeing Vincent mentioned, the best Pre-Amp I own and have heard for the money is the Vincent SA-T8. Competes with or bests Pre's costing much,much more. Above your budget and line level only.

A used Audible illusions 3a would fit your needs nicely. It has 1600ohms output impedance however. What is input impedance of your monos?