2. amps-preamps
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looking for ideas on a tube pre amp

I recently purchased a new pair of Focal Sopra #3 speakers and would like to try a tube pre amp with them. My main listening speakers have been Magnepan 20.1s with upgraded x overs for several years I purchased the Focals mostly to give my listening room a breath of fresh air even though I doubt I will ever part with my Maggies. I am currently using the Parasound JC2 preamp with the JC1 amps and mostly XLR cables so it would be nice to have a pre with XLR connections, I have been looking at the Audio research pre amps it would be nice to from someone that has tried several pre amps, I am giving myself a budget of about $2500. 
jeff99
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Jeff- I think you probably cannot go wrong with an Atma-sphere product.  Ralph Karsten provides customer service that is unequalled.  Do your amps have balanced connections?  The Atma pre-amps only have balanced outputs.  
dragon_vibe
430 posts
 
+ one for Atma-sphere Amplifiers and Pre-Amps. In my opinion they are world class products. Iv been a dealer for them and compared them to many products in the USA and EU as well as asian products. To my ears nothing sounds better. Not only is Ralphs commitment to his client outstanding his products are ultra reliable and will give you years if not decades of musical pleasure.
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,611 posts
 
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Add another $1500 to your budget and get an Audio Research Reference 3.
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chlv0ter's avatar
chlv0ter
31 posts
 
I've run a Rogue Audio M99 Super Magnum tube preamp with Focal floor standers and it calmed them down quite a bit.  Still Focal revealing and transparent sound but warmer...

lenmc2964's avatar
lenmc2964
240 posts
 
Rogue RP 1 or the RP 5 made in America both great preamp's at their price point. You can call Bill at Rogue he'll be happy to answer any questions you have. 
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