2. amps-preamps
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plz suggest a tube preamp to match Parasound A21 amp

Hi, I'd like to add some tube attitude to the signal entering my Parasound A21 amp. Plz suggest decent tube preamp under $2,500...New or used, but no 20-30 years old, vintage stuff plz. Fully balanced design is preferred. Combined XLR / RCA inputs/outputs are necessary. Recently tried Schiit Freya Plus, but didn't like it due to weird volume control function and delayed start. Tnx.

surfmuz
samac's avatar
samac
499 posts
 
How did the Freya +/A21 combo sound?

As for tube pre, the deHavilland Ultraverve is fantastic.

http://http//www.dehavillandhifi.com/UltraVerve-Preamplifier.htm

Cheers,

Scott
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
In search of tubey goodness? Cut out the middle man, get right to it https://www.ravenaudio.com/product/blackhawk-mk3/
ebm
9,311 posts
 
ARC,VAC used get balanced if possible it is quieter for sure.Good luck!!
surfmuz OP
404 posts
 
Freya +/A21 combo sound better than my SS (p6)  and I know that I could play with tube rolling to polish the SQ, but that clicking-scraping volume control and pretty long start delay of Freya is Just not for me. 
soix
9,687 posts
 
There’s a Unison Research Unico PRE available here for $2k (MSRP about $5k).  They fly under the radar but make really good stuff.  Best of luck. 
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