2. amps-preamps
  3. 191802-4635

Solid State Preamp to replace tube unit

I currently own a CJ tube preamp. Ive always owned tube preamps and I would like to get my first solid state preamp.I am fed up with buying expensive hard to find tubes that last 3 months or new production tubes with that not so great sound. I pine for consistency. I probably wont sell my CJ I'll just keep it. My power amps are NAD M23 for the summer and CJ Premiere 12's for the winter.

Since I dont dabble in the solid state world I am not sure what to get. I figure since this is my first SS unit 4-5k preowned??. Some brands I have considered CODA< Pass, AYRE, Classe, Bel Canto, Krell etc. Note: I have tried the Parasound and Benchmark but they didnt do it for me. I dont like anayltical sterile sound. If it is a touch warm/colored that is probably good as I am coming from a very warm CJ tube unit.

Must haves are a remote with balance control. Multiple outputs (XLR and RCA). I have an outboard phono pre. Thank you for reading and for your suggestions.

jimbones
jimbones OP
256 posts
 

I already have the ET5 which is higher in the line than the 3 ( I think) I am wondering if a Pass XP20 or XP22 is better than the ET5...

sls883
349 posts
 

@jimbones  Did you ever try Philips Holland 7DJ8 / PCC88 tubes in the ET-5?  I bought a bunch of them for the 17LS2 (it takes four tubes).  I had read that they sound good and they last longer.  Tube Depot has them for $59.

I was bummed when I had to return the 17LS2, but in my opinion, the LTA sounds better. 

jimbones OP
256 posts
 

No I have a Reflector tube (not sure what the tube designation is, maybe it is a 7dj8?_) I just installed a 1980's era American made 6DJ8 no manufacturer name on it. Sounds good.......for now lol

yyzsantabarbara
4,829 posts
 

If you use ROON try the digital balance control of ROON vs the analog of your next preamp. My Benchmark LA4 has a great Balance but not as good as the ROON setup. Though ROON only works for digital streaming.

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,152 posts
 

Very easy - Coda Fet preamp , retail around $7500it is a solid state preamp I would buy it is almost tube like but with exceptional detail and realism.

great reviews, Call Mike at Audio Archon tell him Paul L sent you 

you can discuss in detail ,fair pricing Excellent service a true Great preamplifier by Any standard my brother owns that and about 5 others even more $$ preamps.

Audio is his $$$ playground 

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