2. amps-preamps
  3. 185716-184105

Balanced/Differential tube preamplifier recommendation?

First post here. Hello

 

I have a Wyred4Sound ST-500mkII class D power amplifier. I would like a balanced/differential tube preamplifier to go with it. Ideally I would spend less than $2000 on this preamp. A remote for power and volume control is a must for me. 

I would like something that is true balanced, as my source is also true balanced

I have seen a few options, but most seem to be out of my price range, and to be an uneven match for a fairly affordable power amp like I have. Any suggestions? Thank you 🙂

thought9
yyzsantabarbara
5,047 posts
 

Schitt Freya+

ditusa's avatar
ditusa
1,983 posts
 

+2 Schiit Freya+ preamp

Mike

thought9 OP
15 posts
 

I am looking for something a bit better than the Freya +. Thank you for your suggestion though

mc1969
76 posts
 

So have you listened to the Freya +? Or your basing that on? 

My son loves my old Freya + with his AGD Tempo Di GaN. Loves the flexibility and that it was inexpensive, he got a smoking deal on the AGD also. 

Good luck in your search. 

 I am looking for something a bit better than the Freya +

ghdprentice
7,682 posts
 

I would recommend looking for a used Audio Research, VAC, or Conrad Johnson. I would go back as far as necessary to meet your budget (make sure it is a tube preamp). These are world class preamps and will provide amazingly musical presentations. If you could stretch to $3K this would likely move you up a level.

Real audiophile preamps go beyond simple detail + bass into real musical reproduction. The preamp is the first component to bring up into the audiophile category if you can. It is the wingnut that holds it all together.

 

I bought my first audiophile preamp about 40 years ago… it was life changing.

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