2. amps-preamps
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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
mirage-71
10 posts
 
primaluna evo all the way
mulveling's avatar
mulveling
1,896 posts
 
ARC 5SE seems like a solid choice. And good on your wife to get the ball rolling, though you were also right to bump it up to the SE! Sometimes we audiophiles truly torture ourselves with endless internal debates & second guessing, resulting in decision paralysis. Enjoy!
ghdprentice
6,969 posts
 
Thanks, I love my dogs too… and my system in that order.
smodtactical OP
979 posts
 
@mirage-71 Which EVO model do you have and what other tube preamps did you compare to ?

@mulveling Thanks man. I think it was between the Ren V and this older ARC and I thought about your comparisons and what you said about this. I think maybe I would have loved the VAC sound but pricing wise it didn't work out since it has a phono board that i would never use and didn't make sense to pay for. I have heard lots of good things about 5SE so hopefully will be great.
@ghdprentice  :D
smodtactical OP
979 posts
 
I do hope the ARC will sound richer and more musical than my AGD HE9 SS preamp. :)
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