2. amps-preamps
  3. 1399550003

Care to recommend a preamp?

I am looking for my next preamp (likely used) - must be all tube and come with a top notch phono section as vinyl is my source of choice. Ideally it would also have a remote. I plan to spend somewhere in the $2k-$3.5k and am currently considering a Supratek Chenin, and a Cary SLP-98, though perhaps I would consider Thor or McIntosh. Currently, I pair a Conrad Johnson PV-5 with a CJ 2200 SS power amp. My tt is an old Oracle with a Dynavector high output MC and I occasionally play tapes using a Revox A-77. Speakers are Maggies with an Infinity SW.

Anyone care to weigh in with suggestions?
Thanks.
jmarki
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas
952 posts
 
In that price range, I would look pretty hard at an Audio Horizons preamp. I had one for a couple of years and thought it was absolutely top notch. Both the line stage and the phono stage are excellent.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Be forewarned that CAT pres have stepped attenuators and high overall gain which was a problem in my system. YMMV.
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Other options in that price range may be a Hovland HP-100 or a VAC Standard LE preamp. The VAC would have a remote control.
jond's avatar
jond
5,852 posts
 
I would remove the Supratek Chenin from your list, I used to own a Supratek Syrah, and found it to be incredibly poorly constructed and unreliable. Just my own experience of course ymmv but thought I would give you a heads up.
jafox
1,458 posts
 
I would 86 the Atma MP-3. Was a horrible performer when I heard it years ago at the Atma/BAT dealer compared to the BAT 31SE. I owned and loved the 31SE. Perhaps the newer 32SE would be worth a try but I have no experience with it. Tha CAT SL1 is an awesome performer if you seek dynamics and resolution. The BAT is more about 3D and bloom. Both have excellent bass coverage. The BAT has an optional phono board which is quite impressive.
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