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Preamp recommendation

In the market for a new pre-amp and looking for suggestions. I know this is very subjective to one’s tonal qualities so let’s consider all options in the $2k range.

My current system is analog and I have no interest in digital. Currently running VPI Scout, Elac Alchemy PPA-2, Parasound A21 and Q Acoustics 3050i.

I’m leaning towards a used Parasound JC-2 or Wyred4 Sound STP SE, both in the price range. I had a previous post considering the Jolida or Vincent but have decided not to go hybrid based on inconsistent reviews.

Thoughts?
128x128vette5451
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,552 posts
 
"A couple of extra criteria is the preamp needs to have remote and preferred balanced."

Why "balanced" unless you intend on running running LONG IC cables (can't imagine you have been with the current passive)?

Just curious.

DeKay
georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 

"A couple of extra criteria is the preamp needs to have remote and preferred balanced."


Try here, sure they’ll be what you need.
https://www.google.com/search?q=passive+preamp+with+remote&rlz=1C1CHBF_en-GBAU927AU927&sourc...



Here’s one balanced https://luminousaudio.com/collections/axiom-ii-passive-preamp/products/axiom-ii-passive-preamp-walke...

And one SE https://luminousaudio.com/collections/axiom-ii-passive-preamp/products/axiom-ii-passive-preamp-walke...

Cheers George
vette5451's avatar
vette5451 OP
58 posts
 
@dekay 

good question... I bought a cheap passive from Amazon that was xlr to try. It was the Nobsound Mini Fully-Balanced/Single-Ended Passive Preamp.

 The preamp doesn’t sound bad but a friend of mine brought over a Parasound C1 to try. We put it in direct/analog mode and connected via xlr. The sound difference was incredible with the biggest change in the wide soundstage.

 This has what started the path to invest in a good preamp.
dekay's avatar
dekay
5,552 posts
 
Got it now,  that you are trying to use your current XLR cables...

However, using "balanced" not only adds gain that you do not seem to require, but it also limits your choices within the stated budget.

I generally prefer active preamplifiers as well.

DeKay


georgehifi's avatar
georgehifi
10,312 posts
 
I bought a cheap passive from Amazon that was xlr to try. It was the Nobsound Mini Fully-Balanced/Single-Ended Passive Preamp
.
This is the circuit, for that Nobsound Fully Balanced.
For it to be proper balanced the blue pot at the front would need 4 mono alps segments not 2 as it has it would be twice as long.

https://ae01.alicdn.com/kf/HTB1vwuRam3PL1JjSZFxq6ABBVXat/Mshow-Fully-Balanced-Passive-Preamp-board-H...

Like this non encased rotary one 
https://goldpt.com/sa2x_in_600d.jpg

Cheers George
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