2. amps-preamps
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Balanced tube preamp for Class D amps

Need a balanced tube preamp for Class D monoblocks - specifically NuForce Ref9V2. Have too many XLR ICs to consider change to RCAs. Limited to $3k max (new or used). What preamps have worked well for you? Thanks.

Best regards,

John
nanotweeter
jim_swantko
301 posts
 
The pre-amp I'm using is a little over your budget but I have been using an ARC LS26 with my V2 SE's with outstanding results.

I have also heard wonderful things about the Aesthetix Calypso which is a perfect fit for your budget.

I think a tube pre with the NuForce amps are a phenomenal combination. You may need to do some auditioning to figure out which one you like best however.

Good luck with the search!
stltrains
845 posts
 
John Audio Horizon 2.1 balanced is working very well in my system. A great match for my Ref 9 SE V2s.

Guidocorona i know you have been interested in Nuforce amps from posts i have read from you. Please let us know what your thoughts and findings are.
nanotweeter OP
55 posts
 
Guido - is the Capri a SMPS or SS? Look forward to your assessment.

Jim - thanks for the info. One constraint in my search is that my small room can't tolerate much heat in the summer (rarely listen to my tube integrated then). How much heat do the tubed preamps give off? Are some cooler running than others - tube dependent???

Siltrains - I'll investigate the AH also. Thanks.

John
rx8man's avatar
rx8man
1,484 posts
 
I'll second the Audio Horizons TP 2.0, it sounded ultra liquid and dynamic with the NuForce.
jim_swantko
301 posts
 
John -

My ARC puts out very little heat as there are only 2 tubes, the Calypso has 4 total I think.

I wouldn't worry about heat with a tubed pre-amp... now a power amp is a different beast entirely. My Levinson SS amp put out much more heat than my ARC pre does.

Can you add a quiet fan to your room? :)

Take care
Jim
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