2. amps-preamps
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"Budget" pre tube with SS power amp

I like the idea of have a tube pre amp with a ss power amp. But I know next to nothing about tubes. What are thing to keep in mind when looking for a tube pre that has to work with a SS power. I know some tube pre have an high Output impedance it this a concern? Some tube pre also have some slight DC output. For tube power amps as far as I know this is not a problem but for SS power amps this could spell major disaster as far as I know.

Some tube pre amps that come to mind are the:
Primaluna Prologue 3
Cayin SC-6LS
Melody SHW1688II
Manley Shrimp

The thing is I am looking for some of the tube magic but I don't want an overly warm bloated pre with last of nice fuzzy/warm mids but no low or high to speak of.

So any advise you have is welcome.
mordante
mordante OP
511 posts
 
I think I am willing to spend up to 1500euro. My power amp is a Rotel RC1070 and my speakers are Impulse Aria SE.

I listen mainly to rock/metal. To give you an example last couple of weeks I have been listening a lot to Tristania's Illuminations, Moonspell Irreligues and Anathema Judgement but I also like Slayer, Machine Head etc.

The Audio Note M1 is about 1300euro, about the same a Primaluna prologue 3. The M2 is a 1000 euro more expensive. Both are the models without the phono options.
So the M1 is within my options I think the M2 is to expensive.
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
did you want a phono input? here is one on Agon (someone I do not know)

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?preatube&1216412208

without phono it would be in your price range I imagine...

You will get a hundred responses and all of them different. You need to decide what is important to you, things like if you need a remote or how much room you have on your shelf, what kind of service the manufacturer has etc.

FWIW I have listened to several manufacturers of tube equipment and Audio Note draws the least amount of attention to itself, it is just very musical.

have fun!
kbuzz
214 posts
 
how about this list new or used

joule electra la100
mapletree
SAS
audio horizons
space tech
audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,314 posts
 
since you live in Europe, the thing I suggest you do is try a preamp within your budget with a name that sells easily, in case you will not be satisfied and will want to try another preamp. Go used. Find something like an Audio Research, BAT, Sonic Frontiers, Audio Note, Prima Luna, Manley, VTL, etc. Stick to names that sell. Unless of course you can audition at no cost. You don't wanna be stuck with a piece that will be tough to sell.
Good luck!
niki_69
19 posts
 
Manley Shrimp and VTL 2.2 are good options for used tube preamps.Also check the Cary preamps,they are in your price range and have remote control(not shure about phono stage). Cayin tube integrated have been received very well,may be you can go with one of those... PS. I,m listening to Tristania:Beyond the Veil: right now,very good album.Good luck.
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