Suggestions for a holographic preamp?
I'm looking to replacing my Herron Audio tube line stage with something else, not because of a problem with the sound, but for a few other reasons.
I do both digital and analog, and have a Herron Audio tube phono preamp. My power amp is an MSB S-200, which is awesome, and my speakers are Marten Parker Duos, which are wonderful for a deep, holographic soundstage that I like so much.
I listen mostly to rock and reggae, and I'm looking to keep the price under $10K US, and I'm fine with a used one as well.
I get the feeling that I will need a tube preamp to get that holographic sound, but perhaps there are some SS ones that do as good a job?
The fellow I work with at The Music Room suggested a ModWright LS-100 or a used PS Audio BHK preamp; I've researched and they both look like they'd fit the bill, but I'd like to hear your suggestions, too!
Totally understand the budget constraints—but just a heads-up, you can actually save a lot by going for a first-generation Brama. There’s one listed on US Audio Mart right now for $20K. I’d consider offering $10–15K and see if the seller bites. These units come with a 10-year warranty, so you’re still well covered. It could be an incredible value if you’re looking for that top-tier tube pre without paying full price |
@triton20trx and @ei001h - thanks - I know about tube rolling; I've upgraded tubes in both my Herron components and in my 2 tube headphone amps, including one with a couple of WE 300B's in it (and those were well worth the $1200). And yes, when I'm looking for a tube upgrade, my first stop is generally Brent Jessee. Been going to him for a lot of years now. |
@gkr7007 - I did indeed look into the Spatial Audio Raven, but it's too big for the space I have available; same reason I didn't look farther into the Aric Audio's preamps; if I had the space and could figure out some way around the lack of mute on the remote, I'd have bought a Motherlode XL. LTA MicroZOTL and Backert Rhumba Extreme both would fit nicely; in fact, I've already gone ahead and placed an order for a MicroZOTL for audition. |
