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SS Pre-amps that can beat an Audio Research sp16

What SS pre-amps are out there that can be considered a serious contender to replace or upgrade from an ARC sp-16.

I've had the sp16 for a few years now and like it very much. But I still have it in the back of my head that I would prefer to go all SS if possible to eliminate any tube noise issues/concerns which come up on occasion, and perhaps to enable greater frequency bandwidth, which I suspect is possible.

I am looking mainly for detail, wide bandwidth, tonal neutrality, soundstage and imaging.

Here are my leading contenders I have identified to date. I am open to feedback on these or others.

1) Benchmark (integrated preamp/DAC)
2) Bel Canto (pre-amp only or integrated with DAC)
3) McCormick
4) Others?

Thanks in advance for your input.
128x128mapman
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
10-29-13: Mapman
When I mention bandwidth, what I am really looking for is better low end extension. Sp 16 has very clean and articulate bass but not as extended as even my old Carver pre-amp, though the sp16 whoops it in most every other way.

I have owned 3 ARC preamps, though not the SP16, but I can say that your description of the bass sounds very similar to my experiences with all three of my ARC preamps. They are high definition for sure, lots of detail, but they do lack a bit of musical weight.
mapman's avatar
mapman OP
22,341 posts
 
JMC,

Thanks for the Klyne suggestion. Was not familiar with those but very intriguing. A good built in SS phono pre-amp that could work with my low output Denon dl103R out of the box without a step up transformer like I use currently would be a big bonus!

The thing is with the ARC bass is it does sound pretty much as good as it gets with most material. I really don't listen much to pipe organ music, though I do enjoy such things. MAybe I should just let a good thing be. Or consider adding subs at some point if I really feel a need. There is a new model from OHM, the 5015s, same size as my 5s, but with powered subs built in for about another $4K. Maybe some day....
timlub
2,041 posts
 
I don't know how available this is considering Jim just passed earlier this year, but I believe the SST Ambrosia would fit the bill.
I've heard most of your list and would say the Bel Canto pre 3 is the most neutral on your list.... If affordable, I'd head to the Spread Spectrum Ambrosia....
Good Luck,
Tim
gpgr4blu
1,093 posts
 
I'm a pretty died in the wool ARC guy, but I have to agree that Ayre makes a great pre that has as close a flavor to ARC as i have heard in ss pres of affordable price.
roxy54's avatar
roxy54
8,034 posts
 
Agree with the previous suggestion of Klyne. They make a great pre, and it is very quiet.
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