2. amps-preamps
  3. 190477-102598

Need help choosing preamp for streaming

Greetings,

I recently purchased a new pair of JBL HDI-3800 speakers. I have an old Aragon 8008 amplifier that I would like to use with them. I would like to stream music from Tidal and also listen to YouTube videos through them. I have never streamed music, so I have no idea exactly what I need.
I would like to be able to use my iPhone 15 to choose the music to stream. I have no intention of playing CDs or LPs, so I don’t need anything with those capabilities. From what I’ve read I imagine I need a preamplifier, and perhaps a BlueSound Node. If that’s the case, I don’t want to spend much more than $1,000 on the preamp. The preamp must have a remote control. If purchasing an integrated amp is my best option, I would not want to spend much more than $2,000 on an integrated amplifier with a remote control. I don’t mind purchasing used, but I prefer new because of the warranty.
Any help would be greatly appreciated.

francotirador2
soix
9,456 posts
 

The input impedance of the 8008 is 22k Ohms and the output impedance of the Freya is <1k Ohms so they should be perfectly fine together as long as the Freya’s sonic characteristics match with what you’re looking for — just read some reviews for that.  It’s nice you have the option with the Freya to run tubes or not depending on your mood or which sounds best to you. 

francotirador2 OP
12 posts
 

Great! That’s exactly what I wanted to know. I really appreciate the help. I’m leaning towards the Freya with the Node. 

francotirador2 OP
12 posts
 

I’ve decided to go with the Freya+ and the Node. Is it recommended to purchase the tubes from Schitt, or would I do better purchasing them elsewhere? If purchasing them elsewhere is my best bet kindly recommend where that would be. 
Thank you. 

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
978 posts
 

For Posterity: Moon Ace is a good all in one solution for streaming and can be had for around $2K

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
4,925 posts
 

If not too late, another recommendation would be Rogue RP1. Great value on a used market and a very nice sounding preamp. You can upgrade it’s performance by rolling some nice tubes in. 

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