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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
analog_soul
44 posts
 
Try to audition an all ECC83/12ax7 linestage.
vhiner OP
544 posts
 
Any brand suggestions on the ECC83/12ax7? I'm new to all of this.
tpsonic
1,092 posts
 
What characteristics are you interested in?
Mullard CV-4004/M8137 or Brimar:warmer/fuller tonal balance
Siemens/Amperex:linear with good transient behavior.
I'm sure there will be other recommendations to come.
pdreher's avatar
pdreher
1,213 posts
 
Ditto choosing Mullard CV-4004's tubes for 12AX7/ECC83. Amperex white labels for 6922's.
unsound
7,332 posts
 
I believe the higher end Classe' amps have DC protection circutry. I don't know if yours does too. If it doesn't and it's a direct coupled design, I believe you might want to consider using a direct coupled tube pre as any DC leakeage from some tube pres might cause damage to your amp.
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