More robust and full sounding, and better even at low listening volume. It cost less than my other preamp also which was an added bonus. Then again, it is all about component synergy.
Looking for inexpensive preamp
So here is the current gear
Paradigm Premier 800F most of the time, sometimes KEF R100 for SpeakersArcam FMJ P35 AmplifiersRotel 1066 Pre-amp
I feel the Rotel is currently the weak link. Does anyone have any thoughts on a good replacement. Not afraid of used.
I am considering going to the KEF Q750s but that is still down the road.
I like a warmer sound, I like detail but too bright and I can get annoyed.
Music ranges are all over the board. Disturbed to Stravinsky. Although no Rap or Opera. Prefer Folk and acoustic.
Trying to stay under 1k $$$$
Paradigm Premier 800F most of the time, sometimes KEF R100 for SpeakersArcam FMJ P35 AmplifiersRotel 1066 Pre-amp
I feel the Rotel is currently the weak link. Does anyone have any thoughts on a good replacement. Not afraid of used.
I am considering going to the KEF Q750s but that is still down the road.
I like a warmer sound, I like detail but too bright and I can get annoyed.
Music ranges are all over the board. Disturbed to Stravinsky. Although no Rap or Opera. Prefer Folk and acoustic.
Trying to stay under 1k $$$$
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- 26 posts total
Try a used DeHavilland Ultravalve. Check out Kara Chaffee’s Dehavilland website. For years I had a greatly reviewed and very popular tube pre which met my needs. Bought a used Ultravalve and it truly took my system to a different level. Warm, detailed, more realistic sounding (cymbals sounded brassy) and acoustic guitar sounded great. That's UltraVERVE. But it is a good sounding preamp for sure. Not as transparent as an LDR or TVC, but still pretty good for a tube preamp. Oz |
You have the advantage of waiting for a good price on a used item. Tube units give you the option of trying various tubes to tweak the brightness you are sensitive to. I've owned a lot of equipment over the past 50 years, I could not be happier with my 'new to me' McIntosh mx110z tube tuner/preamp. (you don't get remote features, I get remote volume from my integrated amp when I want it). manual for features/specs http://thetubestore.com/lib/thetubestore/schematics/McIntosh/McIntosh-MX110-Z-Series-Owner-Manual.pdf This is double your budget, but fully restored. Perhaps you could sell more existing stuff, cameras, 1st born, ... https://www.ebay.com/itm/McIntosh-MX110z-tube-preamp-tuner/264409660162?hash=item3d900b3b02:g:AHYAAOSwoRFdOiW6 It's phono eq is excellent. I have dedicated FM antenna, pointed at Newark for WBGO Jazz, the FM is as good as they say it is. |
Thank you all for the help. I am looking to find a Schitt I can listen to. Unfortunately it's not in abundance around here. Just Got a chance to look at a Parasound P3 and a Krell Showcase. Has anyone listened to either. Both are in my price range. I believe the Krell was there low entry point. I am only doing audio, and probably only 3 to 4 sources. Streaming, Phono, CD as the primary. Maybe open reel eventually |
- 26 posts total