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Preamp suggestions for Thiel 3.6 & Bryston 4B-sst

I've got a bright sounding system due to the wide dispersion of my Thiel 3.6 speakers and a 'live' room.

I'm using a solid state Bryston BP25 preamp now but am considering other options (up to $2500 used) to warm/sweeten things up and soften the top end. Rock can be harsh. Ideally I'd like:
1. Balanced and single ended ins and outs
2. Phono stage (MM at least, MC a bonus) plus tuner and balanced CD input
3. Remote (Yes I'm lazy I know)
4. Headphone output would be nice but not essential

I like what I've read about Audio Research preamps. Seems like they are detailed while still having that tube warmth and sweetness.

Suggestion welcome. Thanks!
dbdog
timlub
2,039 posts
 
Dave, if I read you right and you don't want to do tubes, i certainly understand. In my feable opinion. As close as you'll come on a reasonable budget in solids state would be an old Classe. DR5 or DR6. The Classe 5 or 6 can be had with remotes and they are an off shoot of the DR's but not as warm. The CP's are similar to the 5 or 6, but a tad more refined. Classe is probably your best bet.
I don't find the Audio Research solid state particularly warm, but in their solid state, I'd probably look at a LS-9. Good luck, Tim
unsound
7,329 posts
 
Timlub, is right on. Many Thiel owners like cj pres. One caveat; you'll lose the advantages of balanced inputs on your Bryston.
wig's avatar
wig
1,267 posts
 
I preferred the CJ over the AR when I had my 2.2 and 2.3
yyz
98 posts
 
I have very similar setup and went from Bryston BP-25 to BAT VK-42SE (solid state) paired with Bryston amps (either PP300's or 7B-SST's). I am currently using Thiel SCS4 but have also had Revel Salons with the above combo. I like the BAT more than the BP-25. It sounds a little more smooth and better on the highs than the BP-25.

Mind you the cost difference between the 2 is quite large. MSRP BAT - $7000 and Bryston $2000 (back in the day). I paid $3500 for a 1 month old used BAT. I wouldn't have replaced the Bryston for something that costs much more than that due to diminishing returns.
dbdog OP
2 posts
 
Yyz, when you say better on the highs, can you elaborate please.

Timlub, I'd rather have the ease and convenience of SS but I kinda think I'm not going to get the sonic result I'm looking for without tubes somewhere in my chain, based on what I read. With my speakers I think I need the muscle and control of a beefy SS amp such as Bryston or Krell that doubles down under low impedance loads (my Thiel spend a fair amount of time under 4 ohms and dip to 2). That leaves the preamp to add the tube warmth and 3D imaging. That's my thinking to date anyway.

My Bryston BP25 has a very clear and transparent sound but it's on the dry and cold side.

I'll check out the classe ones you suggested, thanks.
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