2. amps-preamps
  3. 1300306561

Looking for a Preamp up to $3K

Need balanced in X2, balanced out X2.

Own a Pass X350.5 amp.
GCPH phono pre with gain.
PerfectWave DAC with Bridge goes balanced into Pass (no pre)
GCPH goes RCA into Pass.

I'm tired of swapping cables as one could imagine. Who knew I'd get back into vinyl - but I did.

Been seriously considering building a Audio Note L3 with some really good parts.

The Wyred4Sound SE looks intriguing.

Both offer connectivity that I seek.

Currently have no preamp but had a Cary SLP-05 (great pre, don't ask).

Any help or experience would be appreciated.
128x128desalvo55
desalvo55's avatar
desalvo55 OP
257 posts
 
Looking at the MBL 5011. I know I know, it's nearly twice my budget.

Having the MBL 121's I can certainly appreciate the stellar quality of MBL line. It really is amazing. I have one speaker that sustained damage to its finish - not done by me. I cannot find someone who can fix the deep mirror like finish. Is that a downside?

The preamp IMO is sort of the "general" of the system. I'd like to own the Patten if I could but maybe not so aggresive :)

Looks like one can be had for around 5K. Is it worth it?
srwooten's avatar
srwooten
694 posts
 
If your gonna double down get the Pass XP-20. Reno HIFI treated me like gold, and the pre is a ABSOLUTE JEWEL. I'm using it with my PSA DAC/Bridge with "tent pitching" results. 2X bal in 1 bal out & 2 single out, simultaneously.
sabocat59
98 posts
 
A used CJ PV-15 goes for around $1,600, and it has an excellent tube phono stage. Very neutral and dynamic.
desalvo55's avatar
desalvo55 OP
257 posts
 
The Pass, well yes that would solve the preamp search. Wonder if anyone has compared the MBL and Pass side by side?

Not to familar with CJ components. Hum.
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,610 posts
 
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Audio Research LS-10. A monster of a preamp for about $2k. It is the best solid state preamp they ever made. It sold for $5,500 new. They rarely come up for sale, if you see one, grab it quick.
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