2. amps-preamps
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Cheap Old Preamps

I'm helping a friend look for a cheap (under 100$) old (tubed would be great but not necessary) preamp, and was wondering if you all had some ideas for what to look for (probably on eBay). I've been tracking some Dynacos, but the tube ones tend to exceed our budget. Are the SS daynaco preamps just sucky? His sources include an AR/XA TT and a really old Cambridge CDP. Amplification is a 40 wpc (I think) SS McIntosh amp (model unknown). Thanks.
shersta
jc2000
92 posts
 
The 3020 mentioned above does have a good reputation. However, I think that you can get the same circuit--possibly for less--in the 1020. I've heard some people who have had a 1020 claim that when they upgraded, they had to spend over a $1000 to get something that's much better.
shersta OP
140 posts
 
Thanks for all your responses. I have been keeping an eye out for a nad 1020. I know that sub 100$ is a tough range, esp. for tube gear, but we've also got a friend who's the type of guy who rebuilds stereo and recording equipment just for fun. Thanks again, and I'll be sure to check out some of your suggestions.
tots
26 posts
 
Agree on NAD. Have 7020 from 1982 (is 3020 amp plus tuner). Jumper on back to get to pre-amp output. Mitsubishi DA-P20 also. Other favorites are not cheap, such as Kinergetics KPA-1 and Apt Holman. With a small speaker like ADS L420, 7020 sounds great - only 20 Wpc but heavy duty with big heat sink.
unsound
7,329 posts
 
I hope you realize that for a budget of <$100, your replacement tube costs will be a significant percentage of your initial cost.
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