2. amps-preamps
  3. 164925-3380

Need preamp suggestion

My Krell home theatre pre developed static noise and the repair bill is expensive, so I want to get a new one that sounds at least as good. I am listening to the system with an inexpensive Adcom pre, and the Krell sounds considerably better in many ways - open, dynamic, bigger and more realistic.

Are there pre amps that are a good match for Krell Power amp, that sound as good or better, for a good affordable price?

I also have McIntosh separates and enjoy the sound, but the Krell combo sounds more modern, liquid, and transparent.

I am looking for those qualities.

Big thanks for your words of experience in advance...


gongli3
yyzsantabarbara
4,980 posts
 
I have the Benchmark HPA4 (same as LA4) preamp and it is my favorite component in my all Benchmark stack. I think it is the reason that more expensive gear that I bought to beat it came up short and was sold or relegated to secondary use.

It does have an Achilles heel with my RAAL SR1a phones so that is why the warmer CODA 07x is joining the party. Both pre’s are staying.
audiomaze
128 posts
 
Conrad Johnson pv1 can be had for under a thousand and the sound is wonderful. 
inefficient
40 posts
 
I have a Mark Levinson no. 28 since fall, and I am very satisfied with it. I used to have Promitheus TVC passive attenuators (transformers, EI cores, separate L and R passive preamps), I was quite content, yet ML proved to be a big subjective improvement.
mwasilow
47 posts
 
I see Mickeyb is still thinking his Realistic $99.00 receiver is considered high end! LOL
hshifi
572 posts
 
Hello,
My closest Hifi store in the Chicagoland area has an older equivalent to the current Electrocompaniet ec4.8. I do not know the model. I think it is under $1400. I would take it for myself but it does not have HT pass through. It’s full balanced. With the box, remote, and the manual. It is beautiful to look at. Here is the link to my local store. https://holmaudio.com/
They are also a Nordost and Straightwire dealer in case you want to upgrade your power cord or interconnects. 
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