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Looking For Single Source Tube Preamp

My system is currently a modified Denon 5910 as my only source, a passive Luminous Axiom as my preamp (volume control), B&K Sonata M200 mono amps, and Silverline Sonata 2 Speakers. I enjoy the sound of this set up; however some of the discs I listen to come out sounding a little harsh. I intend on keeping this a single source system. I have never had a tube anywhere in my system. I was thinking of trying a single source tube preamp to possibly smooth things out a little. I have read some threads, but I can't find much on single source tube preamps. Is there anyone out there with a similar set-up to mine that can offer suggestions?

I am aware of the Decware Zsla-1 preamp; however I have not heard it or seen much about it on Audiogon.
kevine
prpixel
876 posts
 
Check out this little guy. It has more than one input but has a tube.

http://www.firestone-audio.com/cgi-bin/product.asp?pdtseqnm=5
sogood51
2,157 posts
 
I'd go for quality of sound regardless of the number of inputs...why limit your choices when there is no money to be saved anyway? Almost all preamps have more than one input.

Dave
nsgarch's avatar
nsgarch
2,524 posts
 
Well, I don't know . . . . . . You have a very nice system and an intelligent way of configuring it. I don't think your (occasional?) problem is a "tube vs. no-tube" thing, otherwise it wouldn't be occasional, it would be all the time.

I'd look elsewhere. Cabling?, you didn't mention. Or probably more likely the source (the Denon). If I had your system, the first thing I'd be looking to upgrade (unless it turns out you have really crap cabling, which I doubt) would be the CDP.

If you are as you seem to imply, a single source digital guy (a perfectly valid approach, though not mine) you really owe it to yourself and your ears to work your way up to the finest you can afford in that department.

Going to tubes at this point represents a radical departure for you, and won't do anything to clear up the problems of harsh digital playback. I've nothing against Denon BTW, but your hearing is obviously getting more refined, and you can now enjoy the benefits of better digital playback equipment. Even an older Wadia or Levinson setup will IMO beat the pants off the modified Denon.

And one more thing: if you want to mess around with tubes a little, again, do it at the source -- ie a Cary CDP, etc.

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