good preamp for dynaco mk3 monoblocks with maggies

Zvovchik, since you are thinking of getting vinyl, you really owe it to yourself to get a tube preamp.

If you run an outboard phono section you have two problems- one is the audible effect of the additional connections (interconnect cable and the like). The other is the output level of the phono section. It may not be high enough.

A decent phono section may well set you back the same as a full function preamp.

A good active linestage can keep up with any TVC or PVC with ease. It does not have to be expensive but it does have to be built right. We started business almost 4 decades ago doing modifications on the old Dyna PAS 3 and we have continued to do so to this day. I'll just put it this way: Its possible to put a very simple circuit in the PAS 3 that will keep up with most preamps made and often for a fraction of the cost. There are tons of DIY circuits and articles out there if you want to do it yourself and have the skills.

Another preamp you can find inexpensively is the MFA Magus. Its not been around for a long time but they were a simple circuit that worked quite well.

Zvovchik, I happen to think Ralph's (Atmasphere) advice makes a lot if sense. Although I agree with Sbrown's comment about the ARC SP11, frankly, I am dubious you can pick up a SP11 in good condition for $1000. I've seen used ones listed on A'gon for multiples of that figure. Plus, ... given the SP11's age, it might need some "freshening up," e.g., new caps, tubes, etc.

So ... going back to Ralph's comment about picking up a refurbed Dynaco PAS 2 or 3 kinda makes a lot of sense. Being that your OP says you are new to the Hi-Fi world, let me introduce you to Ralph Karsten, aka Atmasphere. Ralph is the owner and chief designer of Atmasphere electronics. Ralph and his company are highly respected members of the audiophile community.

I suggest you directly contact Ralph and ask about the cost of acquiring a Dynaco preamp and inquiring how much Ralph would charge to drag it into the 21st Century. Given your stated budget of "1000$" (sic), that's a path I would seriously consider.

Let us know what you decide.

Cheers, BIF

For me there would be no other option except to do exactly as Bifwynne suggests. Ralph has been doing this for forty years... I'm sure he's got it down pat:)

Even if the the SP11 needed work, it has more potential than the PAS3. The 11 is not particulary fussy about tubes and they can be had cheap. Caps and what ever else it needs can be done over time.

Sbrown, If you are going to refurbish an older ARC preamp, the SP-10 is a better choice.