Tube Pre-amp Suggestions.

Great stuff guys, thanks a lot!

I have a CODA #16 and use the Benchmark HPA4 preamp with it. I also had a CODA #8 at one time, this is similar to the Schitt Wotan amp.

I have tried the following preamps with the #16, #8, and the Wotan.In order of preference:

- Benchmark LA4 and HPA4

- Holo Audio Serene (a warmer LA4 and HPA4)

- Schitt Mjolnir v3 (no remote)

- Schitt Kara F

- CODA 07x

- Schitt Freya+

I will need another preamp when I move to my next house. My HPA4 pre currently runs 2 systems. My 2nd future preamp will be for the CODA #16 amp and it will either be a Benchmark LA4 pre or the Raven Revelation tube preamp. 

So, back to Class D, besides the overpriced GANFET models that are being praised by reviewers with a fair fight comparison with silicon based Purifi Eigentakt models (which are half the price, twice the power, and measure better), don't just settle on Buckeye, Nord Acoustics has a great Eigentakt monoblock with more options and a better build aesthetic.

As for preamps, I do like my Schiit Freya+, so +5 on that one. But I also enjoy my Rogue RP7 which you can attain used in your price range. 

@ericrhodes1 it seems the Rogues don’t have balanced inputs, but the Schiits do.

I will check out Nord Acoustics, thanks!

@yyzsantabarbara Thanks, so not too big on the Freya as others here?             Have you heard Ravens, they don’t seem to offer a pre-amp only?

@kds I like a bit of clarity in my sound and the Freya+ was a bit too thick for my tastes. I did get it sounding to my sonic preference with the uber neutral Benchmark AHB2. However, other preamps sounded better to me with the AHB2, so the Freya+ was sold.

The Raven Revelation is the Don Sach (and 1 other designers) attempt at the state of the art in a tube preamp. Spatial Audio has rights to build this preamp. It has become rather popular on A’gon. Cost is a bit under $7k.

https://www.spatialaudiolab.com/raven-preamplifier