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Tube Preamp - What to buy?

Looking to take my first venture into the tube world and going with a tube preamp.  My budget is up to $2500 and willing to buy used or new however realize with my budget that used is probably a better path. I would like to have a built-in MM phone stage.  I am use to having a remote and tone controls, so that would be nice however not a necessity.  

For further information my speakers are Revel Performa3 F206 and the current amp(s) is Conrad Johnson SA-250 and I also have a Rotel RB1552.  I many be looking for an amp upgrade in the future, but one thing at a time. 

So far I have been looking at used Audio Research and Conrad Johnson preamps but very open to opinions on brand and model.  Thanks and I look forward to your opinions and experiences.  
speter04
ghdprentice
6,967 posts
 
Audio Research and Conrad Johnson are outstanding choices. ARC was my first solid piece of audio equipment. Built to last truly audiophile quality so will sound great regardless of age. If I was starting over it would be these two brands I would concentrate on.

Now, over the last 40 years I slowly worked my way up the Audio Research ladder and added more pieces and more contemporary ones. Now my system is all Audio Research Reference equipment (click on my user name, you can see my systems). I also found greater synergy between the pieces.
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
That budget range I would be looking at integrateds, not separates.
hilde45's avatar
hilde45
4,974 posts
 
Recently there was for sale, used, a Quicksilver Linestage for $875 and a Belles SA-100 mono block pair for $1900. That would have been an incredible deal. The Belles is gone, but the Linestage might still be out there. That leaves you a reasonable amount for a good amp. Buying, new, however -- integrated would be a good way to go.
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