2. amps-preamps
  3. 1413847665

Primaluna Tube System

Hi. I am currently running a Primaluna Prologue 3 preamp into a vintage McIntosh solid state amp (MC-2105). I have been wanting to go all tube for a while, and thinking of two possible options.

I have an opportunity to buy a Primaluna Prologue 5 locally for $800 to pair with my Prologue 3. Alternatively, I've thought of selling all my equipment and waiting for an opportunity to buy a used Dialogue Premium integrated amp. What I am wondering is what are the advantages of each option. I have heard great things about the Prologue 3/5 combo. Would I be getting a huge improvement in performance, to justify selling my amp and preamp and the additional cost, by jumping to the Dialogue integrated?

My speakers are Vienna Acoustics Hadyn Grand bookshelf. Many thanks for your suggestions.
md30
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
I have a Dialogue 2 and like it very much; however in your case, if you like the Prologue 3, I would go ahead and take that Prologue 5 - seems like a good price, and would be much less than moving to the Dialogue.
newbee
4,767 posts
 
FWIW I used the PL 1 and the PL3 & PL5 combo for about 5 years. Frankly I found the PL1 very pleasant. The 3&5 combo had greater transparency but the PL5 was a tad lighter in the bass, perhaps it was just that it was 'tighter' than the PL1. Good but not great stuff, IMHO.

Like Learsfool I have and use a Dialogue 2 and like it much. Took a little experimenting with power tubes as well as pre-amp tubes to dial in a tone that I wanted so it would match my speakers but it was worth it. It has a nice combo of warmth and transparency. Personally if I could find one used I'd save the $1000+ difference you would have to pay to get the Dialogue Premium and get it.

md30 OP
7 posts
 
Thanks. I bought the Prologue 5. Sounds pretty good with the Prologue 3. Certainly it throws a huge soundstage. The highs seem perhaps a little harsh. Maybe this is just a matter of break-in. The seller of the Prologue 5 claims he bought it and almost never used it, and it looks absolutely brand new. The other possibility, I think, is that I should change tubes in the PL Prologue 3. Right now I have some cheap JJ tubes for the 12AX7s in the PLP 3. Any recommendations for replacing these tubes?
learsfool
1,215 posts
 
Hi Md30 - I have yet to change the stock 12AX7's. I have, however, changed the stock 12AU7's, (one of them died on me), and I actually regret going with a similarly priced brand. The stock ones were a little better, and the next time I need some, I will go back to them, unless I decide to try something else entirely. Supposedly the 12AU7's make the least difference in the overall sound, but it was noticeable nevertheless.

As far as power tubes go, right now I am using some EL34's in my Dialogue 2, Electro-Harmonix. And yes, the highs may be a bit harsh until the tubes have been in use about 50 hours or so, depending on the tube, really. I have obviously not done a whole lot of tube rolling, so any experiences you have to share would be appreciated.
More to discover