Warm, yet detailed tube preamp


Looking for a warm but yet detailed preamp to upgrade my Rouge RP1 (with NOS tubes). Rest of system is Coincident Frankenstein 300B Mk2, Zu Audio Omen Def Supreme, digital front end with PS Audio AirStream and DirectStream Sr (modified with external power supply for the analog side and different output transformers). The Rouge is a very good preamp (especially for the money), but it does definitely hold the system back at this point. I would like to add a bit more warmth of the overall sound and also add depth to the soundstage (without losing details). And I do want a remote... if nothing else, volume and mute.

 

Willing to spend about $5k used (or so).

128x128audiojan

There's a Supratek Chardonnay on Hifi Shark that will help in this regard, Ran one for 5 years before switching to a balanced system. Still have mine but keeping it in reserve for a second system someday. Made in Australia but good service here in US.

I’ll add a +1 to look at Don sachs. I have his model 2 and it’s outstanding. I prefer a more neutral sound and so I am running this with the provided rectifier tube; however experimenting with Mullard GZ34 gave exactly the warmer detailed sound you are asking about.  But given your price point you are right at the Raven cost point which is noted to be even more special.

I have Zu Omen Defs also, along with an RP1 (RCA Cleartops).I feel the Rogue with those particular tubes has just the right touch of warmth. It replaced an LTA MZ2 which was not warm at all no matter what tubes were tried,but was very transparent and clear.I enjoyed it more as a 1watt power amplifier.The only fault I find with the RP1 is the volume control - not enough steps to fine tune it just right.I owned a Conrad Johnson PL10 in the past that I wish I'd hung on to sometimes. If I upgrade someday I would have CJ on my short list.

Another vote for a Don Sachs pre. Another one that comes to mind is a CJ Premiere 17LS II.