2. amps-preamps
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Best SS preamp $1000

Looking for advice & opinions to kickstart my search for a new solid state 2-channel pre. Budget is ~$1000 max, new or used.

Must have remote, don't need balanced connections, don't need phono stage.

The rest of my system is: Reference 3A MM de Capo i speakers, Parasound HCA-1000A amp, Logitech Transporter as source, current pre is a Parasound P/LD-1100.

Thanks in advance!
tlhiii
timrhu
2,779 posts
 
Neutral is the best word to describe the Bel Canto Pre3. Volume goes up, or volume goes down with no coloration that I can hear, it's like no pre at all. I've owned a few decent amps but none have been as transparent as the Pre3.
Smooth operation is an added plus. The volume control seems infinitely adjustable, an excellent feature.
That's my take.
Disclaimer - I'm considering selling mine to simplify with an integrated amp but haven't committed to it yet. The last time I tried to replace it lasted about a month before I put the Pre3 back in the system.
tlhiii OP
16 posts
 
Most of the reviews of the Pre3 jibe with what Timrhu & Grannyring have said above -- it's neutral and doesn't color the sound.

This fits well with my taste -- I prefer neutral and detailed and transparent, even what some might describe as a litte bit "foward" -- rather than "warm" or "sweet" or "laid back", etc., etc.

I could always swap out some interconnects and/or speaker cables to take the edge off the sound if it went too far.

[@Timrhu, please feel free to shoot me an email if you decide to let go of the Pre3.]
sandstone
358 posts
 
RE: "The aesthetics (i.e., silver faceplate) don't fit with the rest of my gear"
Bel Canto Design offers a black faceplate upgrade option, if that helps any.
http://www.belcantodesign.com/Upgrade.html#5
tlhiii OP
16 posts
 
"Bel Canto Design offers a black faceplate upgrade option, if that helps any."

I had not seen that before, thanks for the tip!
tlhiii OP
16 posts
 
Just an update for those who pitched in with info or followed this thread: I ended up going with the Bel Canto Pre3 and it sounds fantastic in my system. I'm listening as I type this, as a matter of fact...Very happy with it.

It's a significant, not-at-all subtle upgrade in SQ from my Parasound P/LD-1100, more so than I expected to be honest. The old pre was clearly holding my new speakers back -- not anymore! They now sound every bit as good as they did when I first heard them demo-ing in the audio store.

Lots of good preamps were suggested by forum members, so hopefully this thread is helpful to others in the future. Thanks!

Next up...new amp :)
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