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Warm tube preamp for under 1000

Hey guys I am looking for a warm sounding tube preamp with a budget of 1000. Phono stage would be a bonus but is not necessary. I will be hooking it up to a Plinius sa-100 Mkiii amplifier. Here are some that I have been looking at:

1) Cary SLP-74
2) Primaluna prologue 3
3) Cary AES
4) Possibly a Conrad Johnson preamp

I have one more question for you guys. I have heard that there is a certain order when turning on/off a tube preamp that is hooked up with a SS amp. Which is the correct order and why is this? Thanks!
macd
samzx12
1,232 posts
 
I would also consider a BAT VK3i. It is right at your price range.
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sibelius
256 posts
 
I think the AES is a nice preamp for the money. I have the DJH version in my second (bedroom) system and it has worked very well for years. I have a Cary SLP-98P in my primary system and the sonic signature for both are pretty similar. In my experience the CJ's are even warmer than the Cary's with a lighter bass. Both have the classic tube sound.
peter_s
1,348 posts
 
The Cary SLP-50a is a nice one, warm, enjoyable to listen to. Kind of hard to find (I have one).
blindjim
3,092 posts
 
VTL 2.0 used to gain a lot of press. it should be in your wheel house.

Get whatever and add RCA tubes to it.
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