2. amps-preamps
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Best Used Tube Based Preamp $2k Or Under?

As the title says, I am pondering my best options for purchasing a tube based preamp for $2k or under. Must have a remote! 

 

Your opinions, thoughts, and expertise would be greatly appreciated. If I was spending more, I would know most of the best choices, but I'm on unfamiliar ground at this price limit. But sometimes, you can only do what you can do. 

Thanks for any help. 

nightfall
paradisecom
336 posts
 

Lots of people rave about the Quicksilver preamp. 

Would a remote control be needed? 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,393 posts
 

I’m confused is your limit $2k or $3k?

I was going to recommend Rogue RP1 under $2k used it’s around $1k. 

soix
9,784 posts
 

Used Don Sachs preamps pop up occasionally around $2k. 

ghdprentice
7,282 posts
 

I would go used. 

Audio Research

Conrad Johnson

Prima Luna

As far up the model level you can go. No more than ten years or so old.

decooney
2,189 posts
 

 

 

@nightfall Thanks also to those who have recommended Cary SLP-98’s, another unit I was considering, though they seem to be selling a bit over my $3k limit. And the Modwright LS100 is also a great recommendation you provided. I once owned one, and would have no trouble buying another one.

 

I wonder what you decided about moving beyond the MW LS100 and why - if you don’t mind the ak? I’m a happy Cary SLP-98 long term owner, and also enjoy following Dan’s designs for MW too. Good stuff. Like hearing from MW owners.

Looking back some I see Dan used/shipped some of the exact same OEM 6SN7 tubes I've used in my own 98 preamp.  Can share my own preamp is hyper-sensitive to the different 6sN7s I’ve tried in it. Tried more than a few.  Wondering why you moved on and what tubes you tried in our LS100 if you don’t mind sharing more as you seek another preamp.

 

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