Tube preamp $1500-2000 for a thin sounding amp?

Rkumar, in comparing the Cary SLP-88 to the MF A3cr preamps, the MF is more neutral, detailed, and better high frequency extension vs the Cary (stock tubes) which has more "fullness" at the expense of a little detail, and slightly less bass.

I've heard similar Revel speakers and thought that they sounded a little thin when I listened to them (I believe there was a switch on the back that adjusted treble boost or something -- I assume you've played with this, if it exists on this model). I think that the best thing you could do for yourself right now is to borrow different components (including sources, speakers, and amps) to better determine what you're looking for.

Another alternative is to look into a tube amp or tube integrated (one of my favorites is the Jolida 302b, but I've also heard good things about the Cayin). One of these might provide more of what you're looking for.

Michael

BAT VK-3i has RCA jacks in addition to balanced. Most of them that come up for sale have the remote and are well within your price range.

You want a full very three dimenscial tube preamp?Try a Juicy Music Bluberry extream for $1795.00.I heard one at a friends house with khorns and was very impressed.Well worth the money and they are hand built,one at a time.Plus the owner is a square shooter.Do a search under Juicy Music and you will find the site.They have reviews there from sixmoons if I rember right.

Try a used deHavilland UltraVerve, if you can find one. You will easily be able to tailor the sound of the preamp by just rolling one 6SN7 tube. When I had one, it had all the fullness and lushness one could ask for.

I would try a different source if I were in your shoes.I haven't spent any time with your DAC,but the source could very well be the root of the problem. I'll suggest a Electrocompaniet ECD-1. I've been auditioning a modified version of this Dac(thanks to a friend) using a passive volume pot. No tubes in the system at all.The sound is VERY full bodied and slightly warm with no hint of detail lost.It seems to do this without getting strident or bright.The soundstage is stable and wraps around you ...if your speakers image properly. This is a very well balanced dac..never calling attention to just one part of the music.

Good luck with your hunt!