2. amps-preamps
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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
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. 
kaufman's avatar
kaufman
40 posts
 
Parasound JC2 BP sounds great in my system driving a Plinius SA 100 MKII (updated by Vince Galbo), Modwright UDP-205 Oppo with upgraded tubes x3, and Bob Crump power cords on all equipment. Cables are mixed and matched. 
oem-wheels OP
196 posts
 
Nice.. I'm still enjoying mine... No regrets.. Glad you like yours.. I think I can use an upgrade in the amp department now..  : )  Expensive hobby.. 
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