2. amps-preamps
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Looking for an used, inexpensive pre amp

Currently using a cheap but fairly nice sounding Dayton T120 D class amp.  Not enough inputs.  I would like to find a pre amp to use with this amp and perhaps at some point, if I can find the money, I can buy a power amplifier to replace the Dayton.

Figure my budget to be under $200 right now.  Looks like plenty of older inexpensive Solid State pre amps are available on Ebay.  

Any ideas what I should look for when buying a preamp?  I've only used Integrated amplifiers up to this point.  
will62
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
I did not like the SYS 2-input passive and returned it


Did you make sure first it was an impedance match with your source and poweramp?
What is the output impedance of your source and input impedance of your poweramp.
As those that did, love it, and there's always the $349 Saga which has active tube output if the impedance's aren't right.
 
Cheers George
glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,671 posts
 
if you only need more sources a switch box maybe all you need.  second the Saga from Shiit. lastly try some vintage audio shops and regular audio shops that have used items.
fourwnds's avatar
fourwnds
277 posts
 
Maybe an older Van Alstine pre in that price range. 
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,977 posts
 
I have an Adcom GTP-400 that I bought new many moons ago and barely used and its been sitting in a closet next to my other "vintage" gear. Decent unit. Ping me if you want it.
bigkidz
3,383 posts
 
As I always say, find a Counteproint SA-2000 and have it upgraded, caps, a few resistors, etc. and be done with it.  I can add tube rectification to it for an even better sound.  Will probably have better sound that most preamps up to $4K.

\Happy Listening.
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