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Best balanced linestage/preamp for $4000 or less ???

Hey all !!  So I need some help with choosing a preamp, preferably tube, that's a true balance design in and out.. For a 2.1 speaker system.. Need a sub so it'll have to have dual outputs running in parallel if that's the right term to use.. It'll have to have single ended inputs and outputs also.. I use an Oppo205 (Modwright) in the front end for everything digital coming in, movies and music.. But I do my critical listening with music so I use the modded portion of the 205 for that (balance output) and for movies/tv want to use the unmodded single ended outputs..

I have a Classe CA2200 amp and Salk bookshelf speakers and a sub (single ended input)..

I know BAT is out there.. VK31se I'm looking at and some older Audio Research but read them are unreliable.. Anything else anyone else have some experience with ? Will take your opinions seriously as that's how I chose my current equipment...   thanks

I know there's some good stuff single ended but I really want a well balance system through out with my music listening..

oem-wheels
tweak1
3,676 posts
 
oem, I expect you'll be very happy

In the past I have had all tube systems cryoed tubes, all kit differentially balanced. zzwhen you get up into JC 2 territory, I think the differences are slight, but no tubes to worry over, or wait to warm up, or have to turn off...

It seems  a lot of powered sub inputs have not taken output into proper consideration

Also Class D  amplifier chipsets have advanced significantly, but I doubt many powered sub manufacturers are using newest tech

If i do it over I will get passive subs and power with outboard amp/s, or maybe a passive integrated
kaufman's avatar
kaufman
40 posts
 
OEM wheels—I have the ModWright 205, a Plinius SA-100 modded and updated, and I’m looking for a preamplifier that sounds as good as it better than running the Amplifier from the XLR oppo outputs. 

The problem with the Oppo into the Pilinius is I can only go to 30-40 and then it’s too loud. I am afraid of missing bits of information.

How does the JC2 sound compared to just the Oppo running the amplifier? 

I’m mainly interested in 3D soundstage and great imaging, and a dead quiet sound floor. 

I also have the Benchmark 100 watt amplifier—which is dead quiet too. 
oem-wheels OP
196 posts
 
kaufman ,  I'm really enjoying the JC2.. Sounds really good plus eases my mind knowing all the bits is there.. Highly recommend .. 
tweak1
3,676 posts
 
here's an amazing buy: Audio Alchemy DDP-1 with PS 5 power supply (damn near impossible to find separately)

Fully balanced, and includes a terrific DAC
kaufman's avatar
kaufman
40 posts
 
Oem-wheels—thanks for the update, I’ll order the Parasound JC2 BP today. 

I tried RCA passive resistors last night and it was dead quiet but I felt the dynamics dropped off in the bottom octaves. The passive resistors were $500 each 20 years ago and use Vishay or similar quality resistors and were the rage for tweakers. 
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