2. amps-preamps
  3. 1225079484

Preamp w/HT Bypass for Mccormack

I am looking for recommendations for a stereo preamp that would match well with my stock DNA-1. It needs to have a HT byass. The Axiom is no longer practical. I value soundstage, silky highs, and accurate tonal balance if that helps for reference. I am not opposed to my first endeavor into tubes. I must stay under $1500 used.

System:
Sony DVP-S9000ES
DNA-1
Totem Arros
Yamaha RX-V663
Luminous Audio Passive Preamp
Ixos Ixotica Aptimus interconnects
rrekstad
rrekstad OP
45 posts
 
Any comparison between the BAT and Sonic Frontiers Line 2?
fplanner2000
616 posts
 
VAC, used.
fpeel
455 posts
 

I lived with a SF Line 1 paired up with an SMc modded McCormack DNA-1 for several years and felt they worked well together. Enough that I lusted after the Line 2 as a future upgrade.

While not familiar with the Arros, the SF and DNA are not a combination I'd mate with any speaker prone to HF glare. The slightly dry nature of the Line 1 accentuated an edgy character in the upper frequencies of my speaker's metal dome tweeters. Rolling in the right tubes mostly tamed it.

My recollection is the Line 2 lacks the 1's dryness, though neither is a really tubey sounding preamp.

Hope that's helpful.
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