2. amps-preamps
  3. 129202-3022

Best Tubed Preamp For A Warm, Rich Sound, Yet Still Detailed and Agile

As the title says, I am looking for an exceptional preamp (obviously tubed) with warmth and liquidity, some of that golden glow, in the midrange and highs. I do not want slowness, or lack of detail, however. My budget is up to $6,000.00, for a used model. 

Based on my research, many of those that might make the list are very rare to find, and other recommendations would be greatly appreciated. 


nightfall
soundsrealaudio's avatar
soundsrealaudio
756 posts
 
nightfall 

You have enough in your budget to get the deHavilland Mercury 3 which is an upgrade over the UltraVerve which is an exceptional preamplifier. I was a dealer for them for about 12 years and we had a room together at the Rocky Mountain Audio Fest in Denver. Deliriously good. 

http://www.dehavillandhifi.com



bondmanp
1,808 posts
 
I may get flamed for this, but based on how my McIntosh C220 sounds, I would suggest that (~$2800 used) or the C2300 (similar, with a better phono section).  I seek what you seek, and for me, the C220 does the trick.  Whether it has enough "golden glow" for you or not, I can't say.
bigkidz
3,381 posts
 
Find a DHT preamp and be done with all this.

Happy Listening.
soix
9,456 posts
 
For less than one third the price you could try Linear Tube Audio in home for 15 days and see if it works.  From the reviews it sounds like it has the characteristics you're looking for. 
http://www.lineartubeaudio.com/products/mz2-s-2

Or maybe the Sachs SP14 at about the same price
http://www.dsachsconsulting.com/custom%20line%20stage.html

Just a couple other options to consider.  Best of luck. 

initforthemusic
282 posts
 
nightfall,

Perhaps if you list what the tube Pre. will be paired with would help. I'm going to suggest save some money and get a Vincent SA-T8, fully balanced Pre-Amp. The most musically involving Pre-Amp I've heard at anywhere near or double it's cost. Roll in some better tubes and you've got a Pre. you won't ever want to switch off.
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