2. amps-preamps
  3. 186402-81

Best Full-Function Preamplifier

Consulting the collective wisdom on the best preamp with built in phonostage (MM/MC). DAC not required but OK if it has one. Below $20K retail. Must be a no compromise solution--outstanding linestage and a flexible, great sounding phonostage that would not make you wish you had separates. Thoughts?

dodgealum
inna
7,132 posts
 

It's the reality, Tony boy. It doesn't care whether you like it or not.

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tony1954's avatar
tony1954
897 posts
 

@inna 

Maybe you're right.

Or maybe you just like to play the part.

inna
7,132 posts
 

Tony, this is not to say that you can't have a great piece of audio electronics for $20k. You can, and the choice is there. But reference level - unfortunately not. Talking new equipment, of course. And you can have a great power cord for probably something like $2k-$3k.  

tvrgeek
299 posts
 

$20K for a preamp?   🤣

Pick your RIAA stage. More critical than anything else. 

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