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$18k Tube preamp for large scale symphonies please

hi, can anyone suggest tube preamp that's good for handling complex music & large scale symphonies recordings in studio/ theatres? i had audition some: Aesthetix, CJ ,Modwright, Audio Note, ARC but all seems lacking in some ways and definitely not enough air at top octaves and instruments separation/ spaciousness. all dealer agrees that some pre is good at certain genre of music and sound Great even more if music is relatively SIMPLE like vocal, jazz, light acoustic, slow rock and maybe pop songs. Yes i know personal taste varies as well: bass strength & high freq. extension etc. & gears matching too. could anyone share their expreience so i can narrow down a list? my music typically: Van Hellsing & Princess Mononoke movie soundtrack. hope dealers provide constructive comments. Thanks All in advance. -phil
philipwu
gregm
3,410 posts
 
Philip
has anyone thought of VTL, CAT legend & Joule electra?
I have listened to the latter 2 (not the big VTL)
In brief: the Joule offers angelic details -- i.e. the & upper mids and high frequencies are detailed and perceptible, but not harsh.
The CAT has serious dynamics and accuracy in reproducing instruments timbre. Driving a big YBA Passion stereo, I enjoyed the music a lot. Can't say that details were lacking either, but I wasn't really focusing on the frequency reproduction.
By the way, since the Symphonic Line was mentioned: the combination of a CAT (Ultimate this time) and a pair of SL monos gave EXPLOSIVE, phantasmagorical musical results! A joyful experience. (Unfortunately, I don't have this combo -- can't afford it!)
philipwu OP
214 posts
 
has anyone heard a Purity Audio Design preamp Silver transformer series? thanks
audiotomb's avatar
audiotomb
1,112 posts
 
I second the Doshi Alaalp

It's presentation is beyond reproach

Very good resolution of instruments and dynamics

You did not mention if you have an analog source, Nick's preamp stage is incredible
ilidra
21 posts
 
Emotive Audio Epifania or Sira
sonrock
25 posts
 
I listened and used to have some of the above preamps and now I am very happy with Einstein The Tube, however I have changed all the original tubes supplied by the manufacturer (Philips 6922) to NOS Telefunken, Mullard, and Siemen tubes. Now the preamp sounds completely different and truly fantastic, I have to say stunning.

I am an insane box swapper, I change equipment in my system at least 1-2 times per year, last year 5-6 times with every single equipment and now I stop and use the Einstein. I dont think that I'll change it in the next couple of years or even longer. I see this preamp meets almost of your needs,so give it a try ;). Tube rolling is fun also.
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