2. amps-preamps
  3. 1364620573

So what's a good preamp?

I know that's a broad question but I've been using a series of passive preamps for the past 12 years and now I have an amp (Joule Stargate SET) that really like to have an active preamp ahead of it. I'm really not sure where to start. Budget is $1500 or less probably used and I only listen to vinyl so bells and whistles are not an issue-- if there was such thing as an active single input preamp, that could be great. I'm just not sure where to start looking, although I'm sort of interested in the ARC SP16 because I've been told that it has a nice neutral sound by some friends. My priorities are versatility because I listen to lots of different music from jazz to folk to electronic/dance to soundtracks.
dhcod
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
I'd look at the Modwright 9.0 at that price point. They don't come up very often and might be more than $1500, but I also love my Musical Fidelity kW preamp. A beast. Huge power supply. Will drive anything. A hybrid design. An older Pass preamp may also do the trick.
dhcod OP
710 posts
 
I'm also thinking K&K Maxxed Out with built in volume control. Maybe that's the best solution. I know someone with a Modwright. I should see if I can borrow it.
n2siast
19 posts
 
One you hear SAS Audio Lab preamps your search will be over.
kbuzz
214 posts
 
Dhcod. As a prior stargate owner I can vouch for their use with my joule la100. MK2 in my case. Where are you located? I could be persuaded to let you borrow it. I have just re-tubed mine and still use it daily
dhcod OP
710 posts
 
That's an incredibly nice offer. I actually got the chance to hear the Mk1 yesterday in my system. It was a little tube-ey if that makes sense, sort of thick around the middle and a little rolled off the top. I'm sure subsequent revisions attacked that problem. The owner said I'd be real happy with an LA150, given that I'm coming from a passive preamp. They were apparently more transparent. I'm guessing they are a lot of money but I'm on the look out. These Stargates are real good. Can't imagine upgrading from them. What did you move on to?
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