2. amps-preamps
  3. 149625-81194

looking for a tube preamps that doesn't sound like SS

any recommendations for a tube preamp under 4k, that has old school sound, warm, fat, with good mid range and sound-staging.

I have a good SS set up, good clarity and imaging but would like to change things up with a good tube,.

O


oglethorpe
dill
2,530 posts
 
MFA Magus C
jimman2's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jimman2
55 posts
 
I have read the 2002-2019 thread on the Supratek preamps and am very tempted to buy one.  I would read through the thread
bigkidz
3,387 posts
 

Lots of great recommendations above.  I am not a fan of the Rogue though.

Depending on your price range, any of the Counterpoint tube preamps will sound very good and they can be upgraded to sound fantastic.  Look for the SA-2000 or the SA-3000 with phono.  Stay away from the thin chassis designs and the SA-5000 - while it is great sounding it is hard to upgrade because of the time to work on the floating circuit board.

Prima Luna 6DJ8/6922 preamp new runs about $2300 is really nice sounding for the money.  6SN7 tube preamps sound very relaxed as the smaller tubes seem to have a more dynamic punch IMO.


Happy Listening. 

erik_squires
16,118 posts
 
Conrad Johnsons from the 1980's.
luisma31
516 posts
 
I have an MP-3 from atmasphere, great sounding preamp and just swapping different 6SN7 you can get different sounding profiles, atmasphere customer support is great as well in case you have questions or need service.
Actually I just realized you aren't listing your amp or speakers so any recommendations from me or others are not very valuable. 
Your amp kind of will determine which tube preamp will fit best. 
The MP-3 impedance will match most amps and if your amp is balanced then it will be an even better match 
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