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Most Musical 6NS7 tube for a Preamp?

A request for recommendations by those with experience with different 6SN7 tubes.

My system so far is a Pass Labs XA25 SS Amp, and a circa 1988 Tannoy FSMs.
The speakers operate at 4 ohms with a 94 sensitivity.

The room size is medium. Acoustically well treated.

I listen at lower volumes 60-75db. Vocals mostly.

I am looking for the most musical preamp, with a remote.

Budget is $3k. Used preferred. Better value.

Not considering anything from Schiit Audio.

Considering- Supratek Chardonnay.

Any other suggestions?

Tube Ideas?

Thank you!
chorus
chorus OP
976 posts
 
Preamp finalists:

1. Cary SLP 5 -used $3-$3.5k
2. Supratek Chardonnay -New $2k
3. deHavilland Ultraverve- used $2k but upgrades required
4. Dodd Battery -used $1.2k -Something says forget this craziness
kw6
692 posts
 
My finalist

Prima Luna Evo 300
Don Sachs pre
Valvet L2

BTW best 6SN7 Shuguang WE6SN7 then CV-181 Black glass.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,960 posts
 
Sheesh- we don't get in the mix?
I can vouch for Andy Bouwman of Vintage Tube Services. We have many consistently positive comments from our customers going back 25 years.  


chorus OP
976 posts
 
atma- Sorry. How much is the MP 1's retail? (That is the 2 chasis, 6NS7
model correct)?
mca_nyc
6 posts
 
I know this thread was more about the 6SN7 but another consideration is the preamp gain.  I also listen mostly in the 60-75 dB range. The ability to fine tune the volume has been a challenge for me over the years.  Something to consider.  I am happy with this aspect with the Ultraverve Pass XA25 combo. 
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