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Juicy Music Blueberry vs Audio Research LS26 or ?

I have been using a Juicy Music Blueberry for about a year. Along with my Moscode 401HR, they are a hell of lot of fun to listen to.
However, the JM Blueberry adds noise to the system and it is audible at low volumes. I almost hate to blame the preamp, but I've inserted others and quiet returns. But along with quiet comes a price- the music loses some life.
So... I'm looking to replace the Blueberry with a preamp that is dead quiet, but is exciting to listen to. I use the system everyday, and my music runs the gamut, and for the most part, I can't stand "audiophile recordings". A little euphonic color is ok by me.
So... Would I be disappointed by the Audio Research LS26 given what I've said?
I'm also considering the Aesthetix Calypso, and VTL 6.5.
Any opinions greatly appreciated. Thanks
james_edward
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
the audio research ls26 is a classic, as is your moscode...i don't think you can go wrong here. timeless hi fi
bnrlaw
130 posts
 

What tubes are you running in the Blueberry?
You will be able to reduce tube rush somewhat by changing out tubes.
As an aside, you may need to decide between a little noise/fun and alive vs. total quiet/dead-sounding.
The Blueberry is an extraordinary component for the money.
I own and have owned a number of diff. pre's and the Blueberry and Peach are ridiculously good for the money.
sean34
95 posts
 
Take a look at Space Tech Labs in Canada, Albert the owner has about a million combo's of preamps that he will build custom for you to fit your system and musical tastes. There have been plenty of people who have sold their mega buck pre's to buy his because of how good they are, not regarding how cheap they are.
james_edward OP
116 posts
 
I'm running the pimped out 6H30 'DR' tubes. These are as good as it gets from what I can tell... The 6h30 tube does not have a deep NOS bench from which to choose. When I switched from the stock Sovteks to the DR version, the noise issue was about the same, but I found the DR's to be a little warmer, with no loss in detail.
I guess I'll have to be sure to get an in-home audition for whatever I choose, since I would honestly rather have the noise with beautiful music than noise-free sterility.
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