2. amps-preamps
  3. 163401-13968

preamp upgrade suggestion around $2000

Hi,

I am looking to upgrade my preamp.  I am currently using a Luxkit A3300 preamp.  Other components are:
Naim Uniti Serve streamer
Musical Paradise MP-D2 DAC
Otomon Lab custom build 300B amp
Spatial Audio X5 speakers

I am looking for a tube linestage between $2000-$3000.  From several years ago, I read good things about the following:

Cary SLP98
Modwright SWL 9.0 SE
Supratek Chardonnay
And more recent ones with good reviews:

Coincident Statement LineStage
Linear Tube Audio MZ2/MZ3
Don Sachs Model 2 preamp
I have three questions:

1) Is there other models I should consider?  
2) are those in the first group still good options since they are older models?  3) anyone have experience in them and can do some comparisons?



gte357s
gte357s OP
281 posts
 
@jjss49 i spent the whole day research on it since I saw the ad.  I think it is a fact that it is not as popular as brands like Don Sachs, LTA and Modwright.  It has good reviews from a smaller community.  Not saying it is bad, but I am just not sure if it is better than other options on my list.  Also, another reason I didn’t jump on it is because it is an older model using a different set of tubes compared to the latest.  The seller doesn’t have original packaging.  I am concern it get damage from shipping.  All these adds up.  Sometimes buying things is like that, based on gut feel.  
smodtactical
979 posts
 
Why not a good ss preamp?
pmm
232 posts
 
Is there such a thing, a "good" solid state preamp?
gte357s OP
281 posts
 
@smodtactical  I have been using tube preamp for a long time.  Sticking with tube will have less risk of surprise, I think.
rh67
307 posts
 
The MZ2 is a fantastic pre amp/ headphone amp, i`m using one with a Pass XA25. Sound is real and lifelike honestly hard to want for more. I will be selling the MZ2 shortly as i ordered a Supratek DHT pre amp.
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