Have you ever considered getting a Hybrid preamp? I have an ARC, SP-9 MKll that has a SS input section and a tube output. (Old). I also have a PS Audio BHK preamp that has a tube input section and a SS output section.
Just my two cents.
Seeking a Tube preamplifier
I currently have the following system:
- 1. Martin Logan 11A Impression Loudspeakers (hybrid electrostatic)
- 2. Bryston 4B3 Cubed power amplifier 300 into 8 and 500 into 4
- 3. Bryston Bp-19 preamp recently purchased
- 4. Rogue Audio RP-1 tubed preamp backup for BP-19 preamp
- 5. Weiss Dac 204 with Modwright Linear Power Supply
- 6. Lumin U2 mini streamer with S Booster linear power supply
- 7. SVS Pair of SB-4000 subs.
I like the Bp-19 preamp. The sound is refined, detailed and clear but it is missing some of what a tubed preamp delivers. I switched to my backup preamp which is a tubed Rogue Audio RP-1 entry level and noticed that is wasn't as resolving or crystal clear as the Bryston BP-19, but I noticed that a vocalist projected air, depth and a richness that I did not find on my solid state preamp. On a track with a guitar there was a bloom and decay that I didn't notice on the solid state. Now I was thinking what about a tubed preamp that delivers both the positives of a solid state and tubed preamp? My maximum budget new only is $7500.00. Only need a linestage as phono is not required. In any case, I started looking at the entry level Conrad Johnson ET6SE, but confirmed with manufacturer this morning that there is no way to control the balance on their entry level product. I am disappointed, but my seating requires the ability to control the balance. I was also looking at the Rogue Audio RP-9, but their product uses a 6H30 tube which may be difficult to obtain in the future. Any suggestions or thoughts would be appreciated. Thank you.
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- 65 posts total
+1 LTA preamps. They're the best of both worlds. Crystal clear detail and gorgeous midrange bloom and soundstage. My MZ2 is very responsive to tube changes and never loses those qualities regardless of tubes. If you want a lush warm liquid sound, use RCAs. Bright and airy, Sylvania, GE well balanced, etc. You create the sound you want. And with the right tubes, super quiet. |
The Raven Preamplifier is tops Remote allows for volume up/down of either channel. |
+1 @vthokie83 The motherland XL feeds both my Aric Audio300b and and Luxman M10X. It was a somfood I sold the Luxman C900 flagship preamp. The adjustable gain is key to driving two completely different amps. |
- 65 posts total