2. amps-preamps
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PS Audio BHK signature preamp

I was reviewing another preamp post and stumbled upon a recommendation for the PS Audio BHK signature preamp currently half price ($7,000 - selling for $3,500) directly from PS Audio & (unfortunately) decided to research it. I say unfortunately, as I was not looking to buy a preamp.

It has excellent reviews, the audiogon forums speak highly of it, it is the perfect size, has an excellent HF amp (I need one), uses the same tubes as my Rogue RP-1 (I have some excellent NOS tubes) is fully capable with my Logitech Harmony One remote… seemingly a match made in heaven. I want it… and if not happily married, I would get it.


So looking for someone to talk me out of it. I know it will give me a good HF amp, full remote vs partial remote control, and better pride of ownership, vs an albeit excellent ‘entry’ preamp. But given my other components, will it sound the same, slightly better or significantly better? Is it too good for my system? Would I be better off upgrading another component? I currently wasn’t looking to upgrade my Rogue, but this seemed to be too good to pass. My current system:

Rogue RP-1 pre with NOS Telefunkon medical, Siemens nickel plate & Brimar CV4003 NOS tubes (rolling)

LSA Warp 1 amp

KEF R11 speakers

Rythmic F12SE sub w/miniDSP equalization

Aurender N150 streaming Qobuz

Chord Qutest DAC

Pro-ject 1Xpression carbon classic with Hana ML cart

Rega Aria phono stage

Focal Clear OG HF

Transparent + speaker cables, Mogami 2549 interconnects & Maze audio power cables

 

Prior to seeing the PS Audio deal I was considering the following upgrades:  (I am very component space constrained in my choices):

Pro-ject TT > Rega P8

Warp 1 amp > Benchmark AHB2

Please let me know your thoughts and/or recommendations.  Thanks!

128x128signaforce
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,114 posts
 

@signaforce it’s for the best. You will be amazed by a better amp in that system. Keep us posted. 

signaforce's avatar
signaforce OP
193 posts
 

OK, slight change in plans. The PSA BHK signature preamp is back in stock, so pulled the trigger on a black one last night. 
I know I need focus in other areas, but I could not pass on this deal.
As I said in my opening It has excellent reviews, the audiogon forums speak highly of it, (as did most of you), it is the perfect size, has an excellent headphone amp, uses the same tubes as my Rogue (I have 3 different excellent matched pair NOS tubes) & is fully capable with my Logitech Harmony One remote… seemingly a match made in heaven. I want it… 

Two other factors, it is fully balanced and my amp was designed to be used balanced, and in rereading its reviews, Jim Austin in his Stereophile review stated: “PS Audio's BHK Signature preamp is one of the finest audio components I've had in my home”. I can’t imagine better praise than that!
Coda #8 will have to wait, but probably not for long. Thanks again for all your thoughts and recommendations!

 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,114 posts
 

Congrats! Keep us posted. 

signaforce's avatar
signaforce OP
193 posts
 

Thanks! Just received shipping confirmation.
I’m excited with the direction I am going based upon the many recommendations.  

I plan to run streaming through it with my amp tuned off and with the stock tubes until broken in.
Anyone have a recommended break in time? 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,114 posts
 

Run it with amp on to break in the output as well. Keep it on 24/7 for a week even if not playing to let the power supply settle. Usually after 100hrs pretty much any component I ever bought new starts showing its character. Also, I wouldn’t rush with tube rolling.
One other thing…since you got the PS Audio preamp, if you like the sound, go for a matching amp. Eliminate synergy and compatibility concerns. Just my $0.02

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