2. amps-preamps
  3. 1327197142

Tube preamp

I'm currently using a Dared SL2000A preamp to feed my audiosector gainclone solid state amp. I really love the this hybrid setup, but I've been getting the upgrade bug lately and I think that the Dared is the weakest link in the system and am looking to upgrade to better tube preamp under $1500 used or new. Right now the contenders are:

Rogue 99
quicksilver linestage
aes ae-3 mkii
mapletree

any other suggestions?
linaeum66
pubul57
3,712 posts
 
What is the input impedance of the Audiosector?
mechans
3,048 posts
 
The AES AE-3 is really fantastic in my all tube set up. I cannot tell you how pleased I am with it. There is one thing you need to know however which is that the sound is highly dependent upon the 6SN7s you use. If you are not interested in rolling tubes it may not make you happy. OTOH if you like collecting and trying out different tubes this pre is for you.
stl114_nj
94 posts
 
I am very happy with my Cary SLP03 tube pre. Lots of inputs and even a cinema bypass.
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,618 posts
 
Quicksilver makes two models, remote and non remote. I have owned both and I like the non remote better,it uses 12ax7 tubes,the remote uses 6dj8 tubes. You can get these preamps used for about $600.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,138 posts
 
Modwright's lower priced line stage (9.0, IIRC) would come it at under that $$. Not exactly the "tubiest" of tube pres but pretty neutral and you get great customer service to boot (not knocking any of the other manufacturers but just noting my experience.)
More to discover