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Balanced Line Stage Tube Preamps

A recent balanced tube preamp shopper asked for opinions on Rogue vs ARC, ending up with a strong verdict for the Cary -05. Just wondering where the PrimaLuna EVO 400 might fit in this discussion. Functionality is pretty much identical across the board for all: 2 XLRs, 3 RCAs in, and both out. I don't need Cary's headphone section but do really need a remote. Question is all about the sonics. Fellow tube sound fans say Rogue is too dry and clinical. But what about PL? I wouldn't expect it to match Cary or ARC (or C-J) in an ideal room, but is it more tube-y than Rogue? (I do need 2 XLR and 3 RCA, so less versatile candidates need not apply).

 

hickamore
hickamore OP
597 posts
 

@mulveling Thanks for the tip! I’m off to check out the used market.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,488 posts
 

Look for a used Zesto Leto Ultra.    Awesome gear.  I have the original Leto and love it.   It has everything you are looking for and more 

 

 2 transformer coupled XLR inputs and outputs. 3 RCA in and Two RCA out.  

twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,313 posts
 

And don't forget the Backert Rhumba.  Lots of input/output connections, and super-easy tube rolling.

atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,640 posts
 

If you are looking at a balanced line tube preamp, its helpful to ask if the preamp supports AES48. If the manufacturer does not know, that likely means 'no'.

One advantage of going balanced (properly) is that you no longer have to buy expensive cables to make it sound right. The cables will all sound the same and no going back to single ended.

soix
8,889 posts
 

What preamp are you using now, and what sound characteristics/improvements are you looking for?

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