@soix +1
Not so secondary issues would be warrantee and serviceability. Bryston excels here, at the expense of the last iota of performance. IMO
What qualities stand out in really good solid state preamps?
Recently I posted on the Herron HL-1, asking people what they thought, how it compared, etc. It's been sold and that's ok. The search continues.
But it raises a question I'd like to ask folks:
What attributes do you look for in a good solid state preamp?
Some qualities — quietness, durability, seem pretty obvious.
But what other criteria do you use to differentiate between solid state preamps?
How can they differ and what matters to you?
Please let me know!
P.S. As I've looked around, I've begun to learn more about some of the legendary preamps — made by companies such as Threshold, Ayre, Bryston, Pass, Apt-Holman, and others. It's good to have these names as references, but it would be even more useful if I knew what these brands conveyed, sonically. I've played with the idea of getting a newer Schiit preamp and then I wonder -- what if there's a "classic" preamp out there, used? What would it deliver that was worth searching for?
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One of the best SS preamps I heard was the old Pass Labs two chassis preamp. It was not like tubes but fast, separation, dynamic contrasts, deep bass, etc. I purchased mine used years ago for $2K. It looks good also. The Ayre would also be my consideration. I would consider either one of them over the older preamps you mention and what others have mentioned since we have probably heard them all at one time or another and have upgraded too many to mention.. Happy Listening. |
@curiousjim I'm not against hybrid preamps. The point of this thread is different. It's meant to ferret out criteria. |
This is an amazing list. Many said "neutral" or "quiet" but your list really adds a lot. And you have heard all of these differences between different solid state preamps, I’m assuming. Thank you! |
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