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First tube preamp recommendations (under $5k)

Right now have di20he -> terminator -> he9 -> pass x350.8 -> ATC scm7 / NS5000.
I am thinking of introducing some tubes into my chain. I like the sound I am getting but want to explore what tubes can do to the sound (slight warmth, biggest soundstage, better layering etc etc). Don’t want to go to nuts on price. If price is over $5k would consider if its really exceptional (but for sure not over $10k). Totally fine with used. Balanced would be nice but not mandatory.
So far I am thinking RP7, EVO400, bhk. Any thoughts?
smodtactical
jkf011
291 posts
 
Conrad Johnson all day. 
wturkey's avatar
wturkey
773 posts
 
Considering this being your first go around at a tube Preamp, the Schiit Freya+ would be a great place to start. The unit can be run in tube, passive or buffered mode. It costs around a grand brand new and has great resale value. Starting here may be a beginning as well as an end point. 
avanti1960
1,480 posts
 
@decooney
I am using nos sylvania 6SN7 GTA from the 50's, not the vt231.  
Love the sound, these are reasonable and readily available.  
Even with the stock sovtek rectifier but the sound  did improve with a nos mullard rectifier.  
pfeiffer
52 posts
 
I have used the deHavilland Ultraverve 6sn7 based preamp for at least 10 years.  Over that time I have had the preamp's designer, Kara Chaffee, mod it with Dueland silver point to point wiring and Dueland premier capacitors. I run this preamp into an ss Bryston 14b3.  The 6sn7 tube you choose has a huge effect on the overall sound of your system...as much, or more, than cable choice.  I like jazz and I have, for the time being, settled on the RCA 5692 red based 6sn7 for my "sound signature".  I highly recommend the deHavilland...a bargain new or used!
pfeiffer
52 posts
 
I have used the deHavilland Ultraverve 6sn7 based preamp for at least 10 years.  Over that time I have had the preamp's designer, Kara Chaffee, mod it with Dueland silver point to point wiring and Dueland premier capacitors. I run this preamp into an ss Bryston 14b3.  The 6sn7 tube you choose has a huge effect on the overall sound of your system...as much, or more, than cable choice.  I like jazz and I have, for the time being, settled on the RCA 5692 red based 6sn7 for my "sound signature".  I highly recommend the deHavilland...a bargain new or used!
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