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Phonostage, preamp or amp?

Hi folks,

My system is in occasional (once every month or two) rotation with a few different speakers and SS amps I have accumulated.

I have been wanting to try tubes for a while and was wondering where to start.

Which component (Phonostage, preamp or amp) in general, would:
  • Sonically produce the most noticeable tube effect/experience?
  • Require more maintenance?
  • Have greater component matching requirements (gain, impedance, etc.)?
  • Be the most logical to begin with? 

I listen to mostly jazz, classical and some rock.

Speakers:  Magnepan LRS, KEF LS50s, B&W Matrix 801 S2s, Ologe 5 and Harbeth SHL5+40s.
Amps: Ampzilla 2000 2nd Edition monos, Michael Yee Audio PA-1 and a Forte 1A (which I can't find an owners manual or specs for anywhere!)

Thanks!
hleeid
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9d477-supratek-audio-chardonnay-tube

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649666816-don-sachs-model-2-tube-line-stage-pre-amp/

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649600657-sonic-frontiers-line-2-preamp-and-ps-black-faceplate-i...

no affiliation, all excellent units, please check condition...
soix
9,694 posts
 
Since you’re looking at a new phono pre and DAC, I’d consider going with tubed versions of each and the Bryston will likely pass through the tube goodness with its excellent transparency.  Best of luck. 
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jjss49
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op

saw your post below

you mentioned your digital source is a laptop but did not elaborate

if you haven't already, i strongly suggest you get a usb reclocker/cleaner if that is your output into your dac for music... this $100 purchase can improve your sound as much as, or more than, spending 2 grand on a tube linestage
hleeid OP
219 posts
 
@jjss49  My laptop is a SSD HP.  Will look into a usb reclocker.
Thanks for the tip!
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jjss49
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wyred 4 sound and ifi make inexpensive ones that get the job done
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