2. analog
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Which used tubed pre-amp & turntable for convert?

I am seriously considering going back to vinyl. Not happy with the system I have assembled:
Wadia 6 cd
Threshold T2 pre
Threshold T200 amp
Aerial 7B speakers
This combination sounds way too brite for my tastes. As the volume goes up it only gets worse. Everybody I have talked to or written to has suggested getting a tubed pre-amp. I also find myself wanting to try analog again (people who write about analog all sound so satisfied/fanatical even about their sound and I'm wondering if I am over digital). I listen to mostly rock (lots available on vinyl!). If I remove the T2 from my system, which used tubed preamp, phono stage and turntable would be good combination with the above? Phono stage could be in the pre-amp or seperate. Budget is $3000 to $4000. Where should most of the money go in this aquisition? I need some suggestions bad-my ears are bleeding!!!!
nomad
weiserb's avatar
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weiserb
476 posts
 
I am a tube man through and through I listen mostly to classic rock , and a lot of the recordings are harsh
the system is...

Conrad Johnson Premier 14
Sonic Frontiers Sfcd-1
VTL- ST150
Linn LP-12 with Grado
Sonic Frontiers Sig Phono

I think the LPs aound much smoother and more lifelike
I also like a lot of the MFSL or DCC gold discs them seem smoother.

Some tube gear is very revealing and can be a little scary.
I personally like the Conrad Johnson "softer" presentation
Very revealing great depth and soundstage but not scary!
The VTL Rocks !
So does the LP-12

I think that Tubes are definately easier to listen to... But, The only thing that matters is what YOU think.
dar's avatar
dar
51 posts
 
My suggestion would be to drop 2k on a VPI table with a relatively basic arm and an Audio Research PH-3, which maximizes the extent to which your budget is directed toward your goal (versus a full preamp, when you already have a decent one). The cartridge choice can then either leave you in-budget (Grado) for an acceptable tube line stage, if thats what you decide you want, or slightly out of budget (say, Benz Glider, or, if you can find one used, the high output Transfiguration). Are proceeds from the sale of the Threshold already in the budget? If not, you could really add a nice tube linestage to the mix.
steelhead
318 posts
 
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