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Sonic Frontiers Line 2, Heaven or Hell?

Looking for recommendations here concerning a pre amp swap. I am currently using a Linn Kolecktor but wanting to go the tube route with a preamp. The Linn has a MM phono section and not a perfect match for my 2.5 mv MC cart.
Should I look for a tube preamp that has a MC phono stage or go with 2 separate pieces?
I am currently auditioning a Sonic Frontiers Line 2 that has no phono stage. I like the warmth of tubes and with some rolling should be able to get it dialed in to a sound I like.
If I keep it, then I will just probably pickup a Phonomena pre for the phono. If the Sonic goes away then I am back to looking for a tube preamp with a phono section that is flexible to accept a variety of carts.
As always I like to get a lot of bang for the buck.
blueskiespbd
blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
Rig is currently loaded with those Russians, you know those Solvteks. I am trying to decide if I should order 2 recommended replacements for the center row ie. Gain circuit.
I need to know where this can make the difference so that I could actually keep this beast. Several tubes have been mentioned and I would like to order a pair that will meet my tastes.
Of course I want great midrange detail, air on the top and a deep bass. the list I have amassed to date is:

Amperex Holland SQ E88cc, Siemens 7308 s, Amprex JAN 7308 white letter, Siemens ECC88/6dJ8 NOS German

These puppies are expensive so I don't want to misstep here.
jea48
4,789 posts
 
Rig is currently loaded with those Russians, you know those Solvteks. I am trying to decide if I should order 2 recommended replacements for the center row ie. Gain circuit.
02-22-10: Blueskiespbd
First off the Sovtek as well as EH Russian tubes in the Sonic Frontiers Line series One and Two preamps will make the preamp sound like a SS preamp. Not warm sounding at all.....

Pick up 2 pair of good used USA made Amperex white label PQ 6922 tubes. Great sounding tube and they won't break the bank..... Front row the sovtek are ok for now. If you like what you hear with the Line 2 / PQ tubes you can upgrade the Sovtek later .

As for the volume control issue have you asked the seller to pay to have it fixed? If money has not exchanged hands I would not pay for the fix if I were you. If you watch the ads here on Agon occasionally a Line Two comes up for sale at a reasonable price.
jea48
4,789 posts
 
Joe's Tube Lore
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blueskiespbd's avatar
blueskiespbd OP
161 posts
 
So I have ordered 4 NOS Amperex tubes and will see what they can do. I will post back late next week with an update.
brettmcee's avatar
brettmcee
218 posts
 
Hi All,

Can someone compile into a list all that that makes the line 2 dark, liquid and detailed?  I am hoping this sucker is gonna play the hell out of King Crimson, Peter Gabriel and Genesis.

I await all of your genius and experience. Please advise.  
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