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PrimaLuna Preamp Upgrade Question

I have owned a PL Evo400 Integrated for the past few months. I love the amp, but am considering diving deeper into separates. I've been eyeing a Primaluna Evo Preamp to hopefully unlock more separation and presence.

I'm curious if anyone has any experience with owning a Primaluna Integrated and then adding a Primaluna Pre Amp using the HT bypass. I understand this is a possibility, but I'm curious of the added benefits and or drawbacks. Is there is a general consensus it would be greatly beneficial, I would eventually sell off the Evo 400 integrated and go full separates. 

If you don't have specific experience with PrimaLuna but have been in a similar situation using a bypass in an integrated I'd also love to hear some feedback. 


128x128j-wall
newbee
4,767 posts
 
I've been using PL's for some years. I've found that so much of what I expect of my (integrated) amp depends on its tone, which in turn depends on tube selection. For example, if I want a full, warm tone, I'd use Tung Sol 6550's, and for a cooler tone, i.e. greater clarity etc, I use SED 6L6GC's. So if all you want to do is spend more money on your system maybe just some judicious tube rolling will keep you busy for a few years :-).

 But, FWIW, were I dedicated to going back into separates I think I would bite the bullet (cost wise) and go elsewhere.  
j-wall's avatar
j-wall OP
368 posts
 
@newbee tubes are of interest too! Considering the GL KT88 and Mullard 12au7's. I guess I need to go back to the drawing board and maybe start with some tubes. Recently picked up the Linear Power Supply for my Musical Surroundings Nova III and could not be happier. Maybe next I'll work on tubes and then a used PS Audio P10/P12 regenerator. 
tablejockey
3,883 posts
 
"Brand new Focal Aria 936’s. Pleased with them, but they’re not the end all be all’s."

Positioning and room. The 936’s are nice speakers. If that doesn’t work-Kanta or Sopra...and better sources-the madness doesn’t end.

I use a  PS Audio Power Plant-it does its thing in my system.YMMV
j-wall's avatar
j-wall OP
368 posts
 
@tablejockey do you have your PrimaLuna gear running through the PS Audio Power Plant? I've been curious as the entry level of running my Evo 400 through a conditioner such as PS Audio or Audioquest
tablejockey
3,883 posts
 
j-wall-

I use an ancient model with good results.
https://www.stereophile.com/powerlineaccessories/ps_audio_power_plant_premier_ac_regenerator/index.html

Got it here, for cheap. Yet another polarizing subject. It's actually getting refreshed at PS Audio as we speak. Soon as I took it out and turned the system on....the "veil" came back. Few days later my ears adjust, and it sounds fine, but I'm anxious to get it back in a couple of weeks.

I plug EVERYTHING into it with no problems. Opinions on plugging the amp into it is divided. The Audioquest Niagra has good reviews.

I would recommend the dedicated line and tweaky outlet also. Clean power seems to be a solid upgrade to my ears.
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