2. amps-preamps
  3. 983584190

tube preamp with satisfying low end?

Hi:

Just spend the afternoon auditioning a couple of pre-amps. The VTL TL2.5 and the Adcom GFP-750 on Magnepan 1.6 speakers and a Bryston SB-3T Amp. Overall impression was that I love the VTL warmth and bloom on the mid range and high end. However, felt that it was definately lacking in the lower midrange and bass. Adcom had much better overall dynamic range and clarity, however it had that digital edge to it that can be a bit fatiquing. Am looking for a preamp that has the "glow" of the VTL in the mid and upper ranges but has better low end. Any suggestions? My budget is no more than $2000 - new or used.
sibelius
bob_bundus
1,834 posts
 
I experienced similar dissatisfaction with the VTL 2.5 & even the 5.5. However the Adcom (I've never heard one) is Stereophile class A isn't it? Was it warmed up thoroughly Sib? I mean powered on for at least a full day? If not that could explain the grain.
Regarding the BAT: I'm very curious to try one, but I do have one question? Does anyone know the "step-size" of the volume control's step-attenuator? If it is in 2dB steps then that's much too coarse. If only 1dB or even 0.5dB steps, then that would be worth my trying.
sibelius OP
256 posts
 
Bob, I know that the Adcom is a Sterophile Class A, but my ears were not swayed. I think it a great solid state Pre-amp. However, I think that I have been bitten by the "tube bug" and will have problems accepting anything other than a tube pre-amp. I'm trying to get greedy by having the best qualities of tubes (the warmth and for lack of a better word "musicality")with the dynamic range and solid bass of good solid state. This may be something that just does not exist in my price range. However, can't hurt to ask.
sedond
1,391 posts
 
melos ma-333/music director - $1500-$2k, depending on exact model/features. outstanding bass response, wery detailed & accurate, but definitely that warm toob glow & bloom. also nice is the cary slp98 - i wooda been wery content w/it if i hadn't heard the melos... ;~)
pablo1
8 posts
 
Maybe you want to try the Anthem PRE 2LSE. I am going to audition it myself. It may have what you are looking for.
trcnetmsncom
431 posts
 
Hello Sibelius and Bob, I can highly recommend the BAT 5i. I truly believe it will give you what you are looking for. Then down the road when you have the extra cash you can have BAT upgrade it to the "SE" status. The people at BAT are wonderful also. All the best, Tom
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