Advice? Less than $4k, solid state preamp, neutral to gentle


There are many many posts about recommendations for preamps, so many to sift through that I thought getting a couple answers off the top of your heads might be ok to ask for.

Here's my situation: I am looking for a backup, solid state preamp to work with (a) Quicksilver mono block amps and (b) a Pass XA 25. I have (c) two DACs that I like, a Schiit Bifrost 2/64 and a modded-out MHDT Orchid. My speakers (d) are Ascend Acoustics Sierra Towers w/RAAL tweeters, and I have three subs.

My current preamps are both tube -- one is a 6SN7 preamp similar to an Ultraverve 3 and the other is a Quicksilver Line Stage.

I like having solid state alternatives to tube gear both to hear different sonic presentations and also in case I want to give tubes a break or if a tube goes bad.

I have tried autoformer preamps (more or less a straight wire with gain) such as the Bent Tapx and I don't like it on my system. I need a bit more.

If money was no object, I'd probably go drop $5k on an Ayre KX-5. That is a bit steep for me at the moment.

So, the question is: What solid state preamp, less than $4k, used or new, would you recommend to give a fairly neutral to warm/gentle presentation? Or that you simply like for reliability, interface, etc.?

Thanks.

128x128hilde45

@hilde45

Oh man, I get it. I got one in college and a senior in high school. That’s why I can only suggest that people get a Michi P5 for their system and there isn’t one in mine.🙂

I have the Schiit Freya S in my system and it is very good. You might want to consider it. Another that would be easier on the budget as well and looks to be great is the NAD C165BEE.

 

Cheers,

Scott

https://www.schiit.com/products/freya-s

Here’s a used XP-12 in your price range.  Seems like a solid choice especially since you’ve got a Pass amp.  Best of luck. https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisb1g78-pass-labs-xp-12-solid-state

Hatter Audio, Passive/Active Preamp - The Big

Choose Amtrans AMRG carbon film resistors and the active NewClassD opamp output stage for a total price of $2500.

  • Passive or Active operation
  • Selectable 3/6/9 dB gain 
  • Balanced and single-ended inputs/outputs
  • Outboard linear power supply
  • Large display - choice of colors
  • Remote control of mute, volume, balance, input, display brightness, and active-passive mode

Add their Tube Active Stage for a total cost of $4,400 for the preamp and tube stage.

I would keep an eye out on the anniversary wyred4sound preamp. I have the standard one and it's pretty much the sound you are describing.