2. amps-preamps
  3. 1376520511

Solid State Preamps

I have a tube preamp and a recently acquired Herron tube phono pre. I am thinking that I want to go to a solid state preamp because my sound has gotten a bit too pretty. Other equipment includes a Basis table and arm, Dynavector XX mkii cartridge, Marantz MA9 amps, Magico V3 speakers, Transparent cabling. I could spend up to $5000--what are some choices? I am already thinking about Esoteric C-03 and Simaudio P-7. Suggestions appreciated. I would really like a balance control with a new unit too.
teeshot
mattkimb96
107 posts
 
Since you have the Marantz amps, you may want to try the Marantz 7S2 pre-amp. If it had HT pass-thru I would have strongly considered keeping the one I sold close to 3 years ago.
soix
10,167 posts
 
Out of curiosity what tube pre are you currently using? I'd recommend a Bryston BP26. The reason is I'm using a BP6 and find it very uncolored and open sounding, but most importantly it allows the strengths of everything that comes before or after to come through it intact without stripping or adding anything. Personally I think the Bryston preamps are a bit overshadowed by their amps and perhaps a bit overlooked, and a BP26 may work very well in your particular situation. Also has a balance control. Best of luck.
teeshot OP
123 posts
 
I am currently using a Modwright 36.5 for a preamp. I spoke with Keith at Almarg's suggestion and he opines that the 22k impedance of the P-7 is marginally OK but that the 40k impedance C-03 will be fine.

I have tried the Marantz preamp in my system and have to say I did not find it very transparent. As to tube suggestions, I think I want to try a solid state preamp to see how it works; my favorite systems I have heard for vinyl have always only had one tube component--usually the preamp.

I will look at the Bryston--thanks for the suggestion.
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