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
superchunk

13 posts

 

Sorry, just read your last post...I'm sure the triode sounds amazing, sucks about the remote situation though.

I just suggested the Pre1, which I actually have paired with a triode labs parallel 2a3. Sounds fantastic together. I've decided to sell the triode labs though, as I'm sticking with all lab12 (modified).

 

Is that the VERY expensive Triode Labs Parallel 2a3 monoblocks that you have? I've heard those are simply amazing. 

Hey - I would send you a msg but I can't. I have the same username in the other place though.

I think mine is the prototype for the mono blocks, that's my guess, it's a dual mono stereo amp which is the only one made, and it was made just before the rsr came out.

It was far from Uber expensive which is why I grabbed it even though I diy - I like to remind myself what the best sounds like. And boy did it make me understand what real clarity, real "see through" sounds like.

 

Btw, there is a solution that would allow you to keep the au pre - you could add an upgraded volume control in a separate box. Would run you probably almost a grand but would also likely improve your sound quality noticeably.

Great news! A friend put me in touch with someone who works for Roon. Turns out there is an uncommonly used way of using Roon to control volume, and he helped me set it up. All is now well with the preamp I purchased! 

Thanks again to all! 

Really?  Saw no mention of Manley Labs Jumbo Shrimp.  And yes, I owned one for some years running with Mahi Mahi mono blocks.  It was quite good and has a remote.  Best of luck in your search.