2. amps-preamps
  3. 1001718638

Best Used tube Preamp 1700-- 2500: advice needed

I'm seriously shopping for a new (used) preamp that will outperform my VTL 2.5TL. Even tho I think the 2.5TL is a really excellent preamp for the $$$, reading about (presumably) better preamps has given me the urge to upgrade. Also, I'm thinking that in my system, it's the next logical component upgrade (?). (Rest of my system is ARC VT100 MkII, B&W Matrix 802 S3's, CAL 25 CD player, & Rega P25 with a Benz Glider).

My priorities: I'm seeking better sound-staging & imaging, & generally "better everything", sound wise. Remote control is important to me. I also listen to about 30% vinyl, so a built in phono pre would be nice (as I have with my current preamp), but I've resigned myself to probably shelling out for a separate phono pre. I'm a tube convert, so I'm mainly thinking of tube units. Looks & ergonomics could possibly sway me if the sonic qualities are there.

And I guess looking not just for a great preamp, but kind of one of those "hidden jewels" that perhaps perform like much more expensive units. Right now, I'm considering, in order of interest: the Joule Electra LA100, & the VTL 5.5TL. Also, the ARC LS25 MkII or REF One?--(sorting out all the various ARC models & upgrades can give one a headache, but it's a logical choice given my current ARC power amp), or a C-J Premier 17LS. Various BATS (VK-5i--or??) have interested me, but I always seem to read comments like, "this BAT is really good, but the soundstage (or whatever) isn't as good as an ARC, or other preamp, etc. etc." Then there's the CAT......which I'm kind of reluctantly ruling out because of no remote, but the optional built in phono pre would be really nice, & I do understand it's reputation. Naturally I'd consider others......Cary's, Bel Canto's, etc.

I'm thinking that these are all pretty excellent choices......& when I buy used components sight unheard it usually seems to come down to opportunity/price/my gut feeling/phase of the moon/lots of reading, advice. etc. Or, I could pick one, & hold out for that.......

Any advice on any of this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Steve
steveaudio
tacs
220 posts
 
I'm with Otto. The SA-11 is a very rare bird, and the original company is out of business, but Mike Elliott does still do upgrades on all his models.
Try finding a SA-5000 or 5.1 (includes phono) - already a great sounding piece - and considering having some mods done on it. Or even to the SA-1000. Sweet, detailed, organic sounding, top, bottom, midrange, it's all there. With some models, tube-regulated separate power supply (important sonically) and the possibility of converting to true tube-driven balanced output.
I had my SA-3000 modified and it really sounded outstanding.
Check it out: www.altavistaaudio.com
I'm just a satisfied customer, not an ad agent.
rbirke
144 posts
 
Rogue 99 with phono and remote, $2400 and you can get it for less once in a while. There is a "magnum" version with higher end componentry.

I have listened to a lot of preamps and I bought the Rogue. I think it performs as well as anything I have heard in the up-to-$5000 category.

It also has an inconvenient but available headphone jack (in the back)

It doesn't have balance control. Oh well.

Read Audioreview feedback on this. Something like 15 people have rated it a 5 of 5, and Mark O'Brien at Rogue is one of the great guys in audio.

I have Bryston 7B-st's and a Meridian 508-24. I'm into top-of-the-line-at-nonstratospheric-prices gear, and I think the 99 fits right in with the 7B's and the 508. It also adds tubes to an otherwise all transistor system.

Try it. You'll like it. It's a new classic.

And I have no financial or personal interest in the company!
vayasteve
171 posts
 
If you can find one which is impossible,because everybody who owns one wont sell it,like me.CONRAD JOHNSON PREMIER III.....If you do find one expect to pay between 1200.00 to 1500.00.....
steveaudio OP
331 posts
 
Craig, do you have a phone # or is there a website for Convergent? And is the phono section on your Signature MM or MC? Also, how would you compare the Ultimate to the MK III......(I did read the comparision in the 8/99 S'phile). And, in going for the Ultimate, did you compare it to any other pre-amps (besides your Signature)? Feel free to e-mail me when you list your CAT, thanks, Steve
ohteeel
32 posts
 
The BAT vk3i is a very musical but detailed sounding preamp and should be relatively easy to find used. If your lucky you may be able to source a First Sound Presence Deluxe which will compete with the best of the best.....a remarkable preamp!
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