2. amps-preamps
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Need Help Choosing a Tube Preamp for a Classe Amp

I have Thiel CS3.7 speakers and a Delta 2200 Classe amp. I'd like some suggestions for what tube preamps to audition to match with this amp/speaker combo. The Thiels are wonderful but unforgiving of things like tube rush and I have little interest in tube rolling or high maintenance. The Classe Delta is a fairly neutral SS amp. I'd rather not spend more than $3000 used...or is that unreasonably low? I've listened to the VTL 5.5 and was impressed.
vhiner
vhiner OP
544 posts
 

The info on the Calypso if very helpful. Thanks.
If you don't mind me asking, how pricey are the NOS tubes and how challenging is moving the jumpers?
tpsonic
1,092 posts
 
How about the First Sound Presence or Wyetech Opal? Is a phono stage a necessity?
samhar
1,048 posts
 
The top of the Calypso is held in place with Velcro, for easy access, replacing the tubes and changing the gain setting are simple. Amperex 6922 PQ are $200 a set or Mullard 6922's are $280 a set and Mullard CV 4004 are $180 a set.
mrderrick
292 posts
 
For many years the "synergistic" combo was Audio Reasearch pre, Classe amp, Thiel speakers and all MIT cabling. I have followed this guide line with great success with Thiel 2 2s and 5is. Pre's were LS15 and Ref1. Amps CA100 and CA400. Cabling MIT 350 Ref and 850 Ref.
steveaudio
331 posts
 
the VTL 5.5 is supposed to be excellent. I have a Cary SLP98 that I love--extremely quiet, "neutral", looks gorgeous. ARC & C-J worth checking out of course.....
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