PREAMPLIFIER UPGRADE QUESTION


My system consists of the following:

1. Martin Logan Impressions 11A

2. Rogue RP-1 preamplifier

3. Lumin U@ mini streamer with Chord Qutest DAC.

4. Bryston 4B3 Cubed power amplifier

I just purchased the Bryston amplifier and it has brought my speakers to life. From dull and listless to vibrant and alive.

I would like to upgrade my preamp and my three choices are as follows:

1. Rogue Audio RP-9-tubes

2. Bryston BR-19 which is fully balanced.

3. Conrad Johnson ET6 or ET6SE

My cables are Cardas Clear Cygnus

Any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

kjl1065

The new Schitt Mjolnir v3 is a very good preamp. It does not have a remote and is more of a desktop preamp/headphone amp. However, I found it much better than the Freya+. I use this for headphones, but I have used it with a CODA #16 amp.

If you want a preamp that is TRUE TO THE RECORDING then the 2 obvious choices are what I use, the Benchmark LA4 or HPA4 and the Holo Audio Serene. These 2 will not add to the sound of your other gear. That maybe a good thing or terrible based on what you want to achieve.

I owned a Bryston BP-20 preamp long ago and it is not in the same class as the LA4 and Serene and even the Mjolnir v3. I also had the current Bryston headphone amp, and it was somewhat similar to the BP-20, too hard on top.

You might also check out a PS Audio preamp. I just brought their BHK Signature preamp and  so far, I am very happy.

If you are interested in the c-j I would recommend getting the SE.   The problem with demoing preamps it that they are the heart of your system so they are tough to A/B compare like a source.  

I like the voicing of cj , you may not.   If possible demo a preamp before selling your Rogue .... or any of your potential choices. 

 

If you want a tube preamp that will elevate your system to next level check out the Zesto Leto Ultra II preamp that TMR has used.   

I had the original Zesto Leto and it was amazing.  I regret selling it.   

I have always stretched the budget a little when choosing a preamp.   Choose the right one and you won't feel the need to upgrade for a while.