2. amps-preamps
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Putting together first system... clueless.

Hello everyone, I've begun piecing together my first system, and I'm not really sure what to do in regards to the preamp. Vinyl is going to be the only source for the system.

The goals of the system are minimalism (as little as possible between the record and the speakers), and upgradeability. I figure, if I do it this way, can more easily learn about the differences in components and get a good feel for what I like and need, and upgrade accordingly.

It's a budget system and I should only spend about $3-4k for the entire system. The equipment I've bought so far is a Rega RP1 w/performance pack, and a Musical Fidelity VLPS-II. I think I'm gonna go with something from Magnepan for the speakers, so I've got maybe $1-2k left.

My question is this: Are there any recommendations for an extremely minimal preamp stage that is basically just 1 source in/out, with a volume control? If this equipment doesn't exist, is it much of a factor in this system if it's just a volume control? (As in, I could just make it myself with quality parts without introducing terrible sound?)
baliacta
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,771 posts
 
Am I missing something or do you not have an amplifier yet? If you go with Maggies, you will need an amp with some oomph.

If you do need an amp, you best bet would be an integrated amp with the $1-2k budget.

The MF phono stage is a nice piece, btw.

Rich
baliacta OP
3 posts
 
No, I don't have an amp yet. That's what I'm trying to figure out, is what kind of amp/preamp I should get. I just don't really know anything about them.

After doing some reading on here, it sounds like I probably shouldn't go with the Magnepans, because they're going to really limit the number of viable amps, especially in my price range. I've been reading up on the Zu Audio speakers, and it sounds like that would be a better option, since they work so well with so many amps.

I was looking around the forums, and found what I was asking about is a passive preamp.

I guess my question is: provided I go with the Zu Audio Omens, is it possible to get a decent sounding stereo tube amp in the 1-2k price range, and is a passive attenuator a viable option?
mesch
3,481 posts
 
What is the sensitivity and impedance of the omens? There are many high quality integrateds in your price range. Many come up used on AG. Do you require seperate amp/pre?
mikirob
955 posts
 
You would be better off getting something like theTekton Lores and a Primaluna Proluge integrated. Then spend the extra $$ on some decent cable and vinyl. Good luck.
wolf_garcia
6,696 posts
 
A Jolida integrated would cost about half of what a Primaluna costs, likely have more power, and they sound fabulous. (note...Jolida plug # 784)
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