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Tube Research Labs Latest Dude Preamp

For those members following a recently closed thread about my TRL wows, I have an update. The manufacturer has contacted me and offered to replace my first generation unit with their latest and greatest unit free of charge. I spoke with Paul today and we have agreed on a framework to get this done.

This is an extremely generous gesture as the new model is radically different and more expensive then the generation it’s replacing. We had an interesting conversation about the new units fully balanced design that Paul feels will be a much better fit for my particular needs.

I was not expecting anything like this. They really have stepped up in a big way. Keep you all posted on the situation and hope to have some specifics on the new architecture and features soon.
cdente
c5vette's avatar
c5vette
8 posts
 
Got mine 2day!! It took a little while but it was well worth the wait!

I normally don't buy New equipment! I prefer to try different used equipment then turn it over for a profit a little loss or break even!

Then I came upon all this controversy about the DUDE! I read all the pros & cons & decided to get one!!

It looked like alot of equipment for the $$$!!

I know a few more were shipped last week when mine was, I'm sure there are more happy owners!!

I have nothing to do with this company (TRL)just happy consumer!!
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,603 posts
 
I got my new Dude today and boy was it ever worth the wait, Wow and Wow again! Mine is RED in color and weights some 75 pounds! Shallco 45 step volume control and a transformer that weights some 14 pounds!

Mine has 2 - 6sn7's per side to better drive my 20K input impedance 600 watt/channel amp and Soundlab M1 speakers. The build quality is simply awesome. Looking inside the unit simply has me in awe. The sheer massive nature of the unit, layout, and build quality are most impressive.

The power supply in this thing puts most power amps to shame. After only 6 hours I am spellbound from the sound. Music is once again in my home!

This Dude is finest piece of audio gear I have ever owned or heard in my 35+ years of audiophiledom.

Once the unit run about two more weeks I will write a more complete review.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,603 posts
 
Pictures of my new Dude.

http://s1020.photobucket.com/albums/af324/grannyring/TRL%20Dude%20preamp/
dracule1
1,085 posts
 
Can you post some pics showing inside of the Dude? I was considering this preamp about a year ago, but the build quality inside prevented me from buying one. Thanks.
grannyring's avatar
grannyring
6,603 posts
 
I would call Paul for some as I don't want to share his circuit and secrets for all to see. I will let Paul make that call as I want to respect him and his work.
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