2. amps-preamps
  3. 131717-14164

Always long for (upgraded) first love: Sonic Frontiers Line 3

I wonder where I can get a decent condition Line 3 and is it worth it compared to preowned newer ones at the same price range. About twenty years ago, I had my first tube preamp which was SF SFL-2/Krell combo and I loved the combination. It’s just the overengineered, neutral (to me), and transparent sound and clean design that I like about it.
Sure, I love the CAT preamp which has similar sonic characteristics (IMO) very very much and can find them in good condition every now and then but then again it was a first love thing with SF....
goldeneardoc
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
well, I have a Line One & replaced it with an ARC LS25 Mk II, but not sure I want to sell it - it may become part of a bedroom system

but you might consider finding a One and modifying the P/S to get a 3
jond's avatar
jond
5,892 posts
 
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/tube-sonic-frontiers-line-3-2017-10-04-preamplifiers
brf
1,715 posts
 
@ randy-11

well, I have a Line One & replaced it with an ARC LS25 Mk II, but not sure I want to sell it - it may become part of a bedroom system

but you might consider finding a One and modifying the P/S to get a 3
The Line 3 has a completely different circuit compared to the Line 1
goldeneardoc OP
19 posts
 
Perfect time for my dilemma: with the same amount of money, will I get a better sound quality and/or reliability from say less than 10 year-old tube preamp (putting memorabilia aside for a minute)? Although price is not very cheap for 20 year-old gear, it's not unreasonable either.
erik_squires
16,346 posts
 
So the OP Mentioned BAT, as well as the Sonic Frontiers 3.

Is BAT still in business? They seem to be legendary, but keep a very low profile online.

Wondering if anyone can give me an idea of affordable used BAT vs. SF 3 and how they sound.

Best,

E
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