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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
soix
9,540 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.
scar972's avatar
scar972
225 posts
 
You have a lot of good options here to choose from, but don't forget the benefit of a tube preamp is the ability to try different tubes! The warm, rich, detailed sound you're looking for could depend on the tubes you decide to use as much as the preamp itself.
tooblue
1,928 posts
 
Another nod for the Lamm LL2 or the LL2.1. I purchased the LL2 used and after letting it go cycled back to a new LL2.1 after trying some really good used preamps, the only other preamps I tryed that gave the Lamm a run were the Audible Illusions Line stage with upgrades and a First Sound Presence that was the equal of the Lamm. Good luck

nightfall OP
188 posts
 
I appreciate everyone's input thus far. I will research and carefully consider your suggestions. I've also had recommendations for the following:

Cary SLP-05
Allnic L-3000 MK2
McIntosh MC500T
Joule Electra LA-150 Mk II Special Edition

Any thoughts on whether these would provide what I am looking for would also be appreciated. Thanks.
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