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EAR vs Audio Note preamp

Friends,
I am contemplating getting a preamp with in-built high quality phono stage. I have shortlisted EAR 868/912 or Audio Note M3/M5 phono. I plan to buy pre-owned so I am flexible about the models. The power amp that will be driven will be a Nelson Pass First Watt F6 initially and slowly I may get into the SET domain. Can someone tell me about the sonic difference between EAR and Audio Note preamps ? I value speed, dynamics and purity of tone. I am neither for artificial warmth or artificial clarity. 



pani
pani OP
1,219 posts
 
Ralph, if I go with ARC then I will get their Ref phono 2 too, it all still comes down to well within $15k (used) which is affordable
bdp24's avatar
bdp24
9,821 posts
 
Speaking of Atma-Sphere pani, don't overlook Ralph's two full pre-amps. They're REAL good, and rather than discontinuing and replacing them every couple of years (ala ARC), he instead offers current owners updates. A MUCH better deal for owners, and a more honorable business model imo.
pani OP
1,219 posts
 
Unfortunately in the region I stay (Singapore) Atma-Sphere has very little presence. No dealers here, hardly anyone has any experience to share. So, it is a total shot in the blind for me. Else I would love to try a OTL tube preamp
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,844 posts
 
Connoisseur Audio doesn't have one?
lbelchev
64 posts
 
Thöress Integrated “Super” Preamplifier ... a versatile full-function tube preamplifier incorporating a state-of-the-art line control amplifier and a ground-breaking phono stage in one case. 

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