2. amps-preamps
  3. 183314-125627

Considering moving to separates with a tube preamp-appreciate recommendations

I currently drive Dynaudio Evoke 50 speakers with a Hegel H390 integrated amp. The Hegel also functions as my DAC and streamer.

I use an Elac Alchemy PPA-2 phono pre with a Technics SL-1200G turntable.

I also have a Denon DCD-A110 SACD player.

I've been pleased with this setup, but enjoy trying new combinations of gear, so I'm considering moving to separates for the preamp and amp. I'd like to try a tube preamp mated to a solid state class A/B amp.

I'm considering something used in the $3-$4K neighborhood for the preamp. PrimaLuna EVO 400, Rogue RP-7, and PS Audio BHK Signature are at the top of my list. 

Potential used stereo solid state amps in the $4-$6K range include the Parasound JC5, PS Audio BHK 250, or maybe Yamaha M-5000 or Rotel/Michi S5. I'd also consider something from Mark Levinson or Modwright if it was in the price range.

The Bel Canto EX-1 amp intrigues me too, but it's class D, and I'm not sure about it...

Appreciate input form anyone with experience with these options (or others in these price ranges).

Thanks

jpipes
bluethinker66
42 posts
 

@ronsbass - +1 on Linear Tube Audio Microzotl preamp. Mine arrived just yesterday, so I just starting using it 24 hours ago. 

That said, I've been blown away by how good it is. It absolutely up-leveled my system. It's a stellar product. Both LTA and Fern & Roby (who designed and manufacture the body) are fantastic American companies making products here in the USA. 

 

overthemoon
417 posts
 

If you can, I'd audition a Moon 330A.  It's just under $5k and I think it's an amazing amplifier.  I was comparing it to McIntosh 462 and frankly it wasn't close.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
nicholaslytle
3 posts
 

I know it has been a couple months since the last comment in the thread so my thoughts may not be helpful as you may have made a move with new gear already, but I agree the Hegel H390 is not a soundstage champ and the reason I sold mine.  The quality of sound was good but everything sounded as though it was coming from the center between the speakers 90% of the time.  To experiment I used it in HT Bypass mode and connected a Parasound P7 preamp using the same DAC that was going into the Hegel and all of sudden my speakers (Monitor Audio PL200II) opened up in all directions and finally disappeared for the first time as they are relatively new.  There was some added treble harshness with the P7 in place but it proved the hegel has a pretty restricted soundstage on it's own and my Denafrips Pontus II 12th has a larger soundstage than the H390s internal DAC.

I auditioned the moon 330a yesterday and can confirm it has an incredible sound with a big expansive sound stage, but the 400m may be the way to go with more power and most likely an even larger and more defined soundstage.  Those series moon amps have high gain so match them with a low gain preamp like a Pass Labs XP12 and it may be a match in heaven!

Good luck on your gear journey.

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