2. amps-preamps
  3. 170359-22758

Tube preamp with the best built in phono - $4k budget

I’m looking for a noticeable upgrade from my current (and well loved) Juicy Music Blueberry Xtreme. My primary source is vinyl via my restored Garrard 401 with Schick tonearm and Zu DL103 mk2 grade 2, into an A23 SUT. 
Amplifiers are Atma-Sphere m60 mk3.3’s, so a balanced pre would make the most sense. I am assuming an Atma-Sphere MP3 would be the obvious choice for synergy, but they are tough to find on the used market. I was also looking at Audio Research. I like the simplicity (and cost) of a pre that includes phono rather than a line stage plus separate phono pre - but maybe this is limiting. Speakers are restored Quad 57’s (2 pairs stacked). Thanks for any suggestions! 
rhythmnsound
daveyf's avatar
daveyf
2,930 posts
 
If you can source one, a used CAT SL1 Ultimate Mk 2 or 3 with phono.  Alternatively a 5000 series CAT SL1 Signature with phono. 
Post removed 
jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 
Audio Research SP6 or SP9. These have fabulous phono stages! Can usually be found for under $1500.
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 
Agree that the CAT is very good in the right system, but you're correct to want to go balanced to the M60s. Same issue w/the Audio Research. 

I've been asking myself similar question, maybe at a slightly higher price point, and haven't found any candidate worth it to switch from my BAT balanced pre and separate Nagra phono stage. 

In your shoes, I'd wait and save until I could get an MP1. Cheers,
Spencer
rhythmnsound OP
10 posts
 
Thanks for all the suggestions! 
That Luxman looks beautiful - reminds me of a Marantz 7c. 
Yes definitely want to keep it balanced to get the most out of the M60’s. 
I am leaning toward saving some more to go big with a matching MP-3 or even an MP-1. 
Is the outage from MP-3 to MP-1 really worth the extra $?


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