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What is the best tube preamp currently available?

Folks - It seems my Golden Tube Audio SEP-3 is finally dead and no support or schematics is available in the entire industry. I am forced to consider a new preamp. I am spoiled with its wonderful tube quality and thought you folks would be the perfect forum to start this research for the perfect replacement. I am primarily stereo based, but would consider an A/V tube preamp, if within my budget. I look forward to your recommendations.
Thanks in advance! - Bill
billfields
eee3
214 posts
 
Audio Research Reference 3
mrjstark
1,112 posts
 
There is "no best".
System synergy. Personal preferences/taste. Features/cosmetics/reliability/costumer support.
It all matters.
I could have told you what I think is the "best preamp" in my opinion but it doesn't mean "Jack"...now does it ????
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,388 posts
 
Check out the Audible Illusions Modulus 3A. The Modulus 3 has been the cornerstone of my system for the past 15 years. I have NEVER felt the need to upgrade. It has an extremely quiet phono preamp and uses only 4 6922 tubers or varient.

The preamp has 5 line level inputs, a tape loop, phono input and 2 sets of outputs for biamping. With the outboard power supply, it's a steal. You can find a used one on this site for as little as 1100.00 In all my years of ownership, it has been very reliable.

Bob
chris74
99 posts
 
Berning TF12. Includes phono stage and remote. Good luck finding one though.
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
If I'm not being too rude in creating a parallel thread, what do you think would be the best tube-based line stage at about $1500 or less.

What are the opinions around here about Shanling? I'm wondering if their 2-in/1-out HP300 headphone preamp at $399 would make for a good minimalist line stage like the Melos SHA-1 of 12 years ago. Downside: no remote. Upside: 2 headphone jacks.
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