New to the two channel world - Advice needed on preamp

Pretty much any preamp including tube pre-amps should work fine with that amp. So it really comes down to what you need in a pre-amp. You probably want a newer model with latest greatest usb input. Otherwise a separate dac with analog out.

integrated amps are also a very good choice these days but features vary widely as they do with pre-amps. Take a look at the Bel Canto c5i wihich is a true digital integrated amp. It’s a wonderful device packed with well executed modern technology and top notch. sound. I’ve had mine for a few years now. I decided to try the latest and greatest technology before giving more tubes a try. Glad I did. Don’t miss the tubes at all.

The BAT VK-300SE (used) is consistently fore sale in the low-to-mid $2000 range (astonishing considering its sound and power). Just look around.

Solid state, used you could just swing a Parasound JC2, maybe a Bryston.


Tube, old CJ or Luxman could fit in this price bracket. :)


Really recommend you listen, but my experience with Bryston is they do really well with a tube rather than SS front end.

Parasound!

Are you using the sony for your digital conversion as well? If so, does your stated budget need to cover both your dac and preamp needs? Are you using the sony for bass management or is that handled at the sub?