AudioCircle
Audio/Video Gear and Systems => Tube-o-phile Circle => Topic started by: TJ-Sully on 13 Nov 2018, 12:50 am
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Hi folks - my first post here on the Tube-o-phile circle...
First off....I have absolutely zero experience handling, listening, or choosing tube amplification - and I am looking for some help or advice.
I have a 300 wpc SS amp - and 4-5 sets of floor standers I swap in and out (Thiel, ATC, Bryston, etc). I have a good DAC and streamer and listen to all digital files (i know...sorry!).
My electronics are all solid state. I would like to purchase a tube pre-amp for under $3000 - probably on the used market.
My musical inclinations are mostly acoustic (Bluegrass, Jazz, Dylan) - but often sway to Allman Brothers, SRV, Grateful Dead, etc.
I've been looking online at some Audio Research stuff - but really don't have a clue what they will sound like! And i live in a fairly remote area and not able to listen in person.
I need some help! :) Any suggestions would be greatly welcomed.
Cheers, TJ
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I dont like how Audio Research are built, instead I could look Prima Luna, Mystere or an alternative Chinese brand as these:
Omo Audio M3
http://www.divertech.com/antiquesl.html#PRE
http://www.mei-xing.com/english/English/Products3.html
My favorite is the Mystere due the output transformers 200Khz audio range and the 6SN7 tubes, otoh the ASL at the low cost range.
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The newer ARC gear is too expensive, even used. The older ARC gear is overpriced compared to all the other offerings. Plus ARC company changed hands, and they are not so friendly to their own older gear (compared to the previous ownership)
There are big names, and little names in tube preamps Big names lots of them used, Little names fewer used, and some out of business. Some small great service, some not so great.
Audio Research, Conrad Johnson, BAT, Rogue Audio.. The golden price range is right around your amount. $1500 to $3000 (and newer stuff up to $6000)
Different tube preamps use different tubes. The classics are 12AX7 paired with 12AU7, also 6DJ8, and then 6SN7GT is a cult favorite. More modern preamps may use other tubes. Some getting scarce..
So KNOWING what sort of tube is used in a tube preamp MATTERS. For easy tube playground antics the 12AX7/12AU7 combo preamp is killer. More exotic tubed preamps may or may not be so kind. Then the masses of under $1000 small company small form odd 'kit'-like preamps. If they are what you want? otherwise avoid.
Prices. 50% of retail is the max, 40% for older gear. Folks who are dealers ask more money than private folks. Folks who flip gear for a living also ask more money.
(one brand I suggest not buying is Audible Illusions. Lost of them refurbished with warranty (LOL) floating around used. Problem is service is still a crapshoot and not gonna happen this year sort of problem. So even though I recently bought one, and it sounds nice, I would NEVER recommend one to someone else except as a spare toy, like mine. 'nough said) Plus the rare tubes used are getting rarer every day.
If you are looking for used.. You have to look a LOT, several times a day, maybe for weeks... AudioMart. Audiogon. Register at both. The items folks want, get sold in the FIRST HOUR(S) LISTED. then they vanish. So if you look casually... , all you see are all the things no one wants.
You also must have a PayPal account. All you HAVE to use is a CC, I suggest not linking your bank account in any way. PayPal really does protect the buyer when a transaction goes bad.
And you can fall back on your credit card company is PayPal fails. Paying by check or some other means leaves you with no recourse. (and if the seller insists on cash transfer, unless in person! run away) Also Audiogon has moved to/will be moving to a CC required sort of system. Sellers can sign up to require it, even if you do use PayPal, you have to give Audiogon your CC info FIRST for some transactions (though they do not charge your card) or no go.
I recently bought an original owner (31 years) Threshold FET10 with separate phono box. Custom PS by Jon Soderberg, $900 in the first ten minutes it was listed. I know someone else asked the seller why it had vanished as they wanted to buy it (too).
A newly listed phono box was gone as I waffled looking at the new listing. Another same brand preamp was up for about four hours and is now gone from AudioMart. So I suggest you read up on various ones you are interested in. Not just one or two, say a half dozen. And the minute it shows up at a good price, buy it...
If you do not buy it, you may never see one again. For years.... Trust me, I have had it happen more than once. (Or there may be three listed the next day, Never ever know.)
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Whenever this question comes up I recommend this preamp. It utilizes interchangeable circuit boards that allows you to change tube types of most of the major preamp tube families. 6sn7, 6dj8/6922, 5687, 12au7, 12b4, 6h30, etc. The circuit boards are also available in different configurations also, cathode follower, SRPP, etc. that effects the sound and varies gain. You can also use it with no feedback, or add global feedback, and/or depending on the board, local feedback.
As you change speakers or other components in your system, you can retune things by changing tube type in the preamp. And of course you can still tube roll within each family of tubes. Amazing versatility, and great sound. The builder can endlessly update it or upgrade it as you like. You're no longer stuck with just one family of tubes. Good luck.
http://www.musicaldesign.com/MC_Cham.html
There are many more interchangeable board options than what currently shows on the webpage. He hasn't updated it.
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Whenever this question comes up I recommend this preamp. It utilizes interchangeable circuit boards that allows you to change tube types of most of the major preamp tube families. 6sn7, 6dj8/6922, 5687, 12au7, 12b4, 6h30, etc. The circuit boards are also available in different configurations also, cathode follower, SRPP, etc. that effects the sound and varies gain. You can also use it with no feedback, or add global feedback, and/or depending on the board, local feedback.
As you change speakers or other components in your system, you can retune things by changing tube type in the preamp. And of course you can still tube roll within each family of tubes. Amazing versatility, and great sound. The builder can endlessly update it or upgrade it as you like. You're no longer stuck with just one family of tubes. Good luck.
http://www.musicaldesign.com/MC_Cham.html
There are many more interchangeable board options than what currently shows on the webpage. He hasn't updated it.
WOW. double wow. I have to remember that link. For anyone who might want to play around with various tube types and architecture in a preamp. All in one.
I just blew my spare pennies, but maybe soon. Looks very interesting.
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You could give this a try for $700. I have one and think it sounds fine. If you don’t like it I’m sure you could sell it. American made with easily found tubes. http://www.schiit.com/products/freya
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Joule Electra LA-100 or 150
Don Sachs SP14
deHavilland Ultraverve 3
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My first choice: Don Sachs Model 2 6SN7 http://www.dsachsconsulting.com/custom%20line%20stage.html
If you want close to the Model 2 for less money, try Tubes4hifi.com [not nearly as pretty] http://tubes4hifi.com/SP14.htm
I've read many good posts about the deHavilland gear, but I have not heard any myself. Based upon what I've read, I'd bet it's close to the Tubes4hifi gear.
My first tube preamp was a used AVA T8 preamp. It was my intro to tubes. I kept it for about a year until I got to hear the Model 2 by Don Sachs.
There's a gentleman named Radu Tarta who builds amps and preamps. His website is https://simplepleasuretubeamps.wordpress.com He built my Folsom's Little Chip Amp for me and did an excellent job. He's very easy to work with.
It wasn't until I put the Model 2 in my system that I 'got it' about why tubes are so loved. Now I get it. Whenever I take my Model 2 out of my system, there's a difference...a lessening....a reduction....a loss...a little less magic. I seldom remove my Model 2 from my system for this reason.
Michael
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One might also consider Valve Amplification Company or Audible Illusions if looking at used. Don't forget to pay attention to input/output impedances of amp and preamp.
That Musical Concepts Chameleon preamp looks very interesting. Heard good things about Musical Designs/Musical Concepts.
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Hi folks - my first post here on the Tube-o-phile circle...
First off....I have absolutely zero experience handling, listening, or choosing tube amplification - and I am looking for some help or advice.
I have a 300 wpc SS amp - and 4-5 sets of floor standers I swap in and out (Thiel, ATC, Bryston, etc). I have a good DAC and streamer and listen to all digital files (i know...sorry!).
My electronics are all solid state. I would like to purchase a tube pre-amp for under $3000 - probably on the used market.
My musical inclinations are mostly acoustic (Bluegrass, Jazz, Dylan) - but often sway to Allman Brothers, SRV, Grateful Dead, etc.
I've been looking online at some Audio Research stuff - but really don't have a clue what they will sound like! And i live in a fairly remote area and not able to listen in person.
I need some help! :) Any suggestions would be greatly welcomed.
Cheers, TJ
Before dropping $$$ checkout the iFi iTube2. You can use it as a pre-amp or as a buffer.
The other idea is to get a Sunfire Classic Tube Pre off ebay, around $1000 or so seems to be the going rate.
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Backert Labs is selling their Model 1.2 for $2900 on Audiogon. It's being replaced by the 1.3 at $3500.
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Also, Linear Tube Audio Microzotl MZ2 will come in well under your budget, even fully loaded.
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Hi folks - my first post here on the Tube-o-phile circle...
First off....I have absolutely zero experience handling, listening, or choosing tube amplification - and I am looking for some help or advice.
I have a 300 wpc SS amp - and 4-5 sets of floor standers I swap in and out (Thiel, ATC, Bryston, etc). I have a good DAC and streamer and listen to all digital files (i know...sorry!).
My electronics are all solid state. I would like to purchase a tube pre-amp for under $3000 - probably on the used market.
My musical inclinations are mostly acoustic (Bluegrass, Jazz, Dylan) - but often sway to Allman Brothers, SRV, Grateful Dead, etc.
I've been looking online at some Audio Research stuff - but really don't have a clue what they will sound like! And i live in a fairly remote area and not able to listen in person.
I need some help! :) Any suggestions would be greatly welcomed.
Cheers, TJ
I would look for a used ARC LS 27 or even the cheaper LS 26. There is a guy selling his recently purchased AVA FET Vlve CFR pre here on AC. It is a very good sounding preamp and performs way above its price point. at $1900 practically brand new it is a bargain.
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=160669.msg1713617;topicseen#new
https://avahifi.com/collections/preamplifiers/products/fet-valve-cf-slr-preamplifier?variant=5706110992414
However, I can't argue with the Don Sachs. I have never heard one but I almost had one built with all the bell's and whistles last year to replace my BAT VK-51se preamp. I will probably buy one in the next year or 2 if I don't ditch all my gear and go with a high end Integrated.
Happy Hunting!
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You could give this a try for $700. I have one and think it sounds fine. If you don’t like it I’m sure you could sell it. American made with easily found tubes. http://www.schiit.com/products/freya
Or better yet, ( if you don't like it) ship it back to Schitt within the 14 day audition period. I have the Saga and I kept it. I'm not sure you could do any better than either at their respective price points.
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Or better yet, ( if you don't like it) ship it back to Schitt within the 14 day audition period. I have the Saga and I kept it. I'm not sure you could do any better than either at their respective price points.
Be aware of some issues reported on some of the Schiit products (Saga preamp) as discussed on this ASR thread:
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/schiit-saga-grounding-and-hum-issues.4737/
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Great sounds emanate from my MFA Luminescence. This is a quite rare octel pre amp that provides a huge soundstage and very palpable voice/midrange. Goes great with my Bryston amps and my musical tastes approximate yours. I've done copper foil V-caps in my unit with astonishing results.
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No affiliation
http://www.audioasylumtrader.com/ca/listing/Preamplifier-Tube/deHavilland/Ultraverve-3/with-remote/194614
Uses a single 6SN7. Tube roll galore!
Overwhelmed and confused yet? :icon_lol:
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Be aware of some issues reported on some of the Schiit products (Saga preamp) as discussed on this ASR thread:
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/schiit-saga-grounding-and-hum-issues.4737/
No hum issues here and it's used in conjunction with my HT setup. I have a few other friends using the Saga without issue either. I think the odds are pretty good and the risk (considering the return option) minimal.
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Take a look here:http://www.erhard-audio.com/ (http://www.erhard-audio.com/) Formerly know as Tube Nirvana.
I had Holger build an "Aretha" preamp. Uses 6SN7 tubes. Excellent build quality.
It has been trouble free for the three years I have had it. It now is available with remote.
I have used this with my MKIII mono blocks as well as my Stratos Extreme.
Sound is Excellent.
Welcome to give it a listen if you are in the area.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186731)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186729)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186730)
Well within the price range. I would rate this as comparable to the Sachs unit.
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According to your linked website, the Aretha model uses 6sl7 tubes, not 6sn7.
As per the same website, the Ella model uses 6sn7.
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According to your linked website, the Aretha model uses 6sl7 tubes, not 6sn7.
As per the same website, the Ella model uses 6sn7.
I did type the wrong info. It did indeed arrive with the 6sl7 tubes.
I do have 6SN7's in it now..
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186739)
Thanks very much sunnydaze!
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Hmmmm, interesting......
So let me get this straight...
You have the Aretha model and are using 6sn7 tubes?
I didn't think they were a direct replacement for 6sl7! :scratch:
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You are correct. They are not a direct replacement..
That said I felt the 6sl7 had a bit too much gain. So after doing some research I picked up the 6SN7s.
They have probably 600 hours of use so far.
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Did you check with the builder to make sure they are safe and no detriment to the circuit?
I only ask because I'd like to consider possibly buying this preamp, and I'm curious about all its options and features.
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Did you check with the builder? I only ask because I'd like to consider possibly buying this preamp, and I'm curious about all its options and features.
I did try to contact them. Seems like something was going on with them at the time. It was about the time the owner moved from Colorado.
I did quite a bit of research though.
I found this reply on Audiogon:
Same in only pin configuration and heater and plate voltage - but not the same operating characteristics. 6SL7's have a higher amplification and a lower transconductance than the 6SN7. The tubes are close enough, however, to WORK in each other's sockets if the amp or preamp just happens to be designed within their respective operating characteristics (my amp manufacturer informed me that the 6SL7 can work - but not substituted -in place of the 6SN7 although I haven't tried it). IMO, if your equipment is designed around one or the other, use just that. I doubt that any amp designer would be surprised to learn that another tube than spec'd sounds better in his topology.
I found that a lot of the experts said it will not work/will work types of comments. As with many things a consensus will never happen.
I did call an E.E. Professor friend that is into high end audio. Asked him about using the 6SN7. Explained that I had not been able to contact builder of the preamp. Emailed the quote from Audiogon to him and he agreed with it while adding the caveat that I should keep an eye on it.
I can say with many hours using the 6SN7 that I like the sound a bit more. Either I got lucky or the amp is very forgiving.
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Thanks so much for the info! :thumb:
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Tube-o-phile circle rocks!!
Thank you everyone for your thoughts and suggestions!
Elizabeth, thank you for your insights on purchasing used gear and things to look for, Bob2 for offering to try your own pre-amp! man that's nice of you, but i'm pretty sure you're not nearby..but would love to. Thanks to Greyhound Fan for happy hunting wishes - and recommending Audio Research AND sending links - awesome man. thanks RPM 123 for intel on a product for sale now, thanks Jake for reminding me to think about impedance loads on input/output stages of amp/preamp. thank you so much Michael for recounting a story of your first tube amp and introduction to Don Sachs and for sending 3 great links! big thanks to Lucky guy who related to my musical inclinations and offered some suggestions based on his Bryston amp (and, I too have a Bryston amp!) - how cool is that! Johnny, thanks for 3 straight up recommendations, and AVTA, wolfe and gab for the Schiit nod. and finally to Emil for checking in on whether i am confused and overwhelmed. :)
phew! that's a lot.
Ok time for some reading.... This is fun folks - thanks again for all your help.
really respect your collective tube experience - as well as offering to help me out.
Of all the crap going on in the world - it's great to connect with music fans!
TJ
ps. snowed all day today. going down to -18C with windchill tonight. good music listening weather :)
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You are welcome, and GOOD LUCK!
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TJ, while you've got a lot of interesting recommendations there are a couple things I'm surprised nobody has asked you yet (maybe I missed it). What is the 300 watt SS amp that you will be using ? I ask this because synergy of pre-amp to amp is important. What I speak of is impedance matching of the two components. A general rule of thumb is that the amps input impedance be at least 10 times higher than the output impedance of the preamp thus providing a flat freq response. Again, generally speaking this is not an issue but regardless one you should be aware of.
As for tube preamp choices...........
Cary Audio - classic tube 'lush'
Conrad Johnson - " " "
Audio Research - neutral
Rogue audio - a sweet spot for the $$ IMO
good luck !
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Hi Twitch
Yes, thanks, Jake gave me a head's up re. impedance matching.
My current amp, that i just sold, is the Bryston 4BSST2.
My new amp is the Bryston 4B Cubed. due to arrive in 2-3 weeks.
I think the impedance is 29K ohms, unbalanced in.
Loving what I see from Don's customs pre's. wow.
TJ
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Take a look here:http://www.erhard-audio.com/ (http://www.erhard-audio.com/) Formerly know as Tube Nirvana.
I had Holger build an "Aretha" preamp. Uses 6SN7 tubes. Excellent build quality.
It has been trouble free for the three years I have had it. It now is available with remote.
I have used this with my MKIII mono blocks as well as my Stratos Extreme.
Sound is Excellent.
Welcome to give it a listen if you are in the area.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186731)
Hello Bob,
I'm considering the Aretha because of the tone controls. What is your opinion of their functionality?
TIA,
Les
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186729)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=186730)
Well within the price range. I would rate this as comparable to the Sachs unit.
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Has anyone tried..... Sonic Frontiers Line 2?
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I own a Line 2 SE+ that I haven't used in a while. I replaced it with the PS Audio BHK preamp. The Line 2 is a very good unit especially if you get one that has been upgraded and checked out by Parts Connexion.
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I have an SFL-2 and it's very nice.
Lots of detail but if you want tube warmth it's not the one for you.
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"Hello Bob,
I'm considering the Aretha because of the tone controls. What is your opinion of their functionality?
TIA,
Les"
I'm probably in the minority in that I like having the tone controls. I feel these work very well although I have little experience with other units. I usually make minor adjustments. Usually adjusting bass on some albums to bring it up just a bit.
If all music was well mastered there may not be a need for tone controls.
You could inquire about the addition of a switch to remove them from the signal chain in the preamp for those times you find it necessary.
Good luck with your search!
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I have an SFL-2 and it's very nice.
Lots of detail but if you want tube warmth it's not the one for you.
thanks man!
T
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Has anyone tried..... tube preamp (big tubes) > Bryston 4B > Maggies (3.7) ?
Elizabeth, i'm guessing you have something to add here....hopefully. :).
thanks all
TJ
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I'll give a third recommendation for the deHavilland UltraVerve 3.
That's what I use with my 3.7s and while it doesn't have the detail retrieval of the Sonic Frontiers gear it does sound awfully nice.
Similar to the Audio Research gear but a bit livelier if that makes any sense.
3.7s are pretty revealing speakers so you need a really good preamp with them.
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thanks steveford. i have a really good solid state preamp. i'll give 'er a go - but seriously looking at swapping it out for tubes. that deHavilland looks awfully nice. thanks for sharing.
TJ
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I am called. Nice to be wanted..
My thoughts Yes tube preamp with Bryston amp. good. (Only recently I find I no longer desperately feel I need a tube preamp with my setup. Spending $3000 on duplex outlets seems to have cured what ailed my setup using just solid state preamps. I broke my favorite tube preamp, and need to get it fixed.. I have a feeling if I DO.. I will certainly be happy to have it back in ...)
The thing is....
Most modern tube preamps are not very much sound wise the old tube preamp.
A lot of new tube designs (using other different tubes) are really trying hard to NOT sound like tubes.
SO I would say, if you want a classic tube sound, to buy specifically a tube preamp using ONLY the following tubes:
12AX7/12AU7
6Dj8
6SN7 or 6SN7GT
(I am not a tube genius, so some others might be good, but most of the latest tubes just are trying hard to NOT sound like tubes, yet have all the tube shortcomings! they do sound cleaner, more acurate. Throwing the baby out with the bathwater??)
The ARC like the Audio Research Reference 5SE or 6 are pretty good sounding.. Great sounding..use modern tubes.... but have a shorter than the old 12AX7 sort tube life. I mean if I actually bought one, I would be replacing tubes EVERY TEN MONTHS at least.(since I play music about ten hours a day) Not good..
Where a 12AX7 type, once every three years, even if left on 24/7 !!!! big difference.
Some great tube preamps use just two tubes, some four, some lots more. More means MORE MONEY... So to me 4 is the limit. 5 if it uses a tube rectifier.
Tube preamps are more personal. and purchasing one is more user specific, how it sounds, tube use, what tubes... I have really enjoyed some tube preamps. the other downside is tube preamps break more than solid state, in my experience. I never have had a SS preamp have any problems. Tube ones? yes yes yes. But worth it? yes.
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Has anyone tried..... tube preamp (big tubes) > Bryston 4B > Maggies (3.7) ?
something close to that 30 plus years ago ......... CJ (PV9) > Threshold (s300) > Maggie (3.6)
produced great results........
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Thanks Twitch - very similar setup indeed!
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thank you elizabeth. for some reason, i thought you were running Maggies, a 4BSST2 and tubes. sorry to hear your tube preamp broke. did you drop it... :)
i'm gonna go for it. classic tube pre>big SS amp>Maggies.
but getting the right tube preamp might take a couple of months.
interesting insight into new tube preamps. thanks for that!
TJ
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Of all the suggestions made so far, I like Don Sachs' SP14 and the Linear Tube Audio MZ2. If you only have three or less source inputs, and looks are not a priority, the LTA MZ2 (David Berning design) is amazing and is very affordable. Both units have quite a following, so either would be a good choice. Disclosure, I own the MZ2. For either, take all the available upgrades. You still will be well within your budget.
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thank you jsm71. great suggestions.
i am leaning toward Don Sachs' preamp.
the number of inputs is unimportant to me, as i will only have my DAC running into it. all my sources run into my DAC first. three inputs would be plenty. looks are a little important - and i like the looks of Don's preamp with the wooden casing. but, obviously, performance is the most critical and from what folks are saying, and from talking with Don, his preamp seems like a real gem. I haven't read too deeply into the MZ2 yet - but i will. unbelievable output impedance at 2ohm...
thanks again man
TJ
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The unheard of output impedance of only 2 ohms for the MZ2 is a bonus outcome of the Berning design. That measurement insures the MZ2 mates with any amp. I think you should be ok however with either choice. I'm not sure if this matters, but the MZ2 is also a premier headphone amp, actually what it was originally designed for. LTA also has a flagship preamp that has better looks, but it is above your (and my) budget.
I am a fan of Don Sachs however myself. My setup favors my analog front end I listen to mostly vinyl. I have his custom phono preamp in the wooden case and all upgrade options. I love it. A friend has his SP14 preamp and his recommendation swayed me to work with Don. As I said before, either choice would be a winner for you. You may have to wait longer for Don's products, but worth the wait.
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hey jsm71. ya, absolutely 2ohm output would pair with any SS amp from an impedance perspective. no question! thanks for your thoughts on this. read up on LTA last night. interesting backstory.
also, i noticed, there is a MZ2 posted for sale on the Trading post circle. tempting. but need to wait until i at least have my Maggies in place (getting them tomorrow) - and my new 4B3 amp arrives in 2 weeks.
In the meantime, i am going to listen to a Asthetix Calyspso next weekend. can't wait!
cheers, T
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Maybe this Modwright LS100 in the Trading Post?
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=160974.0
I really like mine. My big SS amps are Sanders Sound Magtech monoblocks.
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My musical inclinations are mostly acoustic (Bluegrass, Jazz, Dylan) - but often sway to Allman Brothers, SRV, Grateful Dead, etc.
I think you must considerer a very good DIY class A SS preamp. My choice after I have studied a lot of:
AKSA's Lender Preamp with 40Vpp Output
https://www.diyaudio.com/forums/analog-line-level/314563-aksas-lender-preamp-40vpp-output.html
A preamplifier / amplifier, whether tube or SS, without specifications, measurements, graphics is a leap of faith -> before buying it, you have to listen to it on your system, with your speakers and room.
Which SS power amp do you have? Very clean, clean, H2 or H3 predominant,... ?
Off course, forget Schiit products.
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I am a HUGE fan of the pre amp shown here:
https://www.transcendentsound.com/masterpiece.html
I paired mined with a pair of these:
http://www.emissionlabs.com/datasheets/EML300B-mesh.htm
In my opinion, it sounds terrific.
Don't stray away from the DIY, I can recommend someone to assemble if you are interested.
This was 1 of the only ways for me to fit the 300B (and mesh at that!) into my stereo.
Not the prettiest per se, but is a wonderful unit.
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Hi Scott,
Did you assemble yourself this Trancendent Preamp?
Did it come with rigid or stranded wire?
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something close to that 30 plus years ago ......... CJ (PV9) > Threshold (s300) > Maggie (3.6)
produced great results........
A classic combo for Maggies for sure. CJ SS amp and CJ tubed preamp as well.
charles
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All good recs so far. I'll throw in two more that fly under the radar but compete with any preamp under 3k.
For octal tubes, Mapletree 2 or 4, custom made with input and gain options.
For 12au7/12at7 type, Elekit preamp. This thing is truly amazing with any tube or SS amp I have tried.
PS: on occasion, used AES AE3 DJH come up for sale and this little guy is a real joy to have around.
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AE3 DJH is a good preamp. Very dynamic. I owned one a long time ago. If I recall, it has quite a bit of gain though...which can be pretty tricky to deal with since most SS amps need just 2V or less to hit 100% output. So, small turns of the volume knob can equate to big volume swings.
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There's a Dodd available on HiFi Shark in the Austin area for 2 grand. Fine preamps and very dependable.
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Hi Scott,
Did you assemble yourself this Trancendent Preamp?
Did it come with rigid or stranded wire?
I paid to have it assembled. All point to point wiring by hand. No PCB's and I have opened it up, it is very straight forward.
If you would like to PM with an email address, I believe I still have the assembly instructions if you are interested.
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I am a HUGE fan of the pre amp shown here:
https://www.transcendentsound.com/masterpiece.html
I paired mined with a pair of these:
http://www.emissionlabs.com/datasheets/EML300B-mesh.htm
In my opinion, it sounds terrific.
Don't stray away from the DIY, I can recommend someone to assemble if you are interested.
This was 1 of the only ways for me to fit the 300B (and mesh at that!) into my stereo.
Not the prettiest per se, but is a wonderful unit.
For the money that looks awesome. Any chance they offer a remote? How would you describe it versus other preamps you’ve had?
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Good evening,
Right at the budget but I've run a deHavilland Ultraverve 3 with both tube and ss amps... wonderful (IMO - PMC & DALI).
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For the money that looks awesome. Any chance they offer a remote? How would you describe it versus other preamps you’ve had?
A remote module could be done as a mod. I am guessing it could only be a volume control.
I honestly feel like the EML mesh is the superstar for me.
Not many products can run them and that sold it for me.
I owned a Manley Shrimp prior and it performed extremely well, but again, this was the only way for me to add the 300B and the mesh option.
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You cannot get better in that price range than the CAT(Convergent Audio Technology) reference SL1... I've had an inkling to sell mine. It's incredible. In doesn't matter. I canNOT be content regardless how good my system sounds. It's a curse. I would let it go for $2500. lemme know. I upgraded some tubes that I will include. Joe
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I paid to have it assembled. All point to point wiring by hand. No PCB's and I have opened it up, it is very straight forward.
If you would like to PM with an email address, I believe I still have the assembly instructions if you are interested.
Thanks for the generous offer, but I have not used preamps to afew years so far.
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Transcendent Sound Masterpiece???
https://www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/transcendent-sound-masterpiece.5876/
[Big IMG, inside] https://i.imgur.com/RTHPcdR.jpg
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Not tube, but highly recommended by 6moons. I found a used one for $1799. The rare Tom Evans preamp for tube lovers..
https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649465975-tom-evans-the-vibe-preamp/
http://6moons.com/audioreviews/tomevans2/vibe.html
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From Aragon/Huesca (Spain), a good artesan, preamp with remote controld and expensive CV-181 tubes.
[Spanish] http://www.santafeanalog.es/equipos/sa-5-preamplificador-de-linea-11.html#
to English: https://translate.google.com
A different line preview, designed with the aesthetics of the monophonic stages 300B-XLS, but very practical for general use due to its small size and high musical quality, equipped with the CV-181 valve, equivalent to the 6SN7, but equal to the best NOS, also with a "retro" air mounted to the outside, gives it a vintage touch.
https://www.tnt-audio.com/accessories/shuguang_treasures_cv181_e.html
but without measures of graphs...
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I can not edit, a new post:
From Huesca/Aragón/Spain/EU, a good artesan, preamp with remote controld and expensive CV-181 tube. Audiophile spanish only have beautiful words about their devices, improvements to others that carry them and about their person. And he can customize and use other expensive components like caps, resistors...
SA-5 PREAMPLIFICADOR DE LÍNEA
http://www.santafeanalog.es/equipos/sa-5-preamplificador-de-linea-11.html#
(http://www.santafeanalog.es/images/catalogo/galeria//sc_20180416123212-SA-5-PREAMPLIFICADOR-DE-LINEA.jpg)
(http://www.santafeanalog.es/images/catalogo/galeria//sc_20180416123212-SA-5-PREAMPLIFICADOR-DE-LINEA-back.jpg)
And, if I am not wrong, citizens outside EU do not pay IVA/VAT custom included in the price (21%). The case and the finish is first class.
975,00 € IVA incluido, free shipping to Spain -> about € 770 / $ 880 + shipping.
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Shuguang Treasure CV181-Z
https://www.thetubestore.com/shuguang-treasure-cv181-z
USD $109.95 Each -> the preamp has $220 in tubes. I suppose they must be matched.
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=188449)
I have a custom SP14 with Shuguang CV181Z tubes.
The sound of sweetness all the time.
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Audio Research SP14?
https://www.stereophile.com/content/audio-research-sp14-preamplifier-measurements
Oh, now I can see the picture. It is not AR SP14.
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Don Sachs SP14 Tube Preamp Review
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=138092.0
Custom 6SN7 Preamplifier
http://www.dsachsconsulting.com/custom%20line%20stage.html
(http://www.dsachsconsulting.com/CitationRestoration_html_files/7250.jpg)
with a RF/EMI input filter :D
Prices and options:
Basic SP14 preamp in wooden case with 48 step manual Khzomo attenuator, top quality parts and 5 RCA inputs: $1799
This includes a basic tube set with 4 6SN7 tubes and one 6X5GT rectifier, one pair of 0.47 uF output capacitors (as above) with the two outputs in parallel Preamp has an IEC connector, you supply power cord
Options:
• Upgrade from manual Khozmo attenuator to 64 step remote contolled version $200 • Change one pair of basic 6SN7 tubes to Shuguang Black Treasure CV181z $129
• Upgrade from cherry case to walnut $40
• Change one set of RCA inputs to XLR (balanced) using high quality Cinemag line transformers $225
• Change the output capacitors to one pair of Jupiter Copper Caps $90
• Change the output capacitors to one pair of Duelund CAST PIO-Cu (expensive, but even better) $375
• 10 gauge cryo treated fantastic power cord $109
This cord makes a 10% difference over any other $50-100 cord I have tried. I am not into snake oil super expensive boutique parts, but this cord has won me over. Richer, deeper sounding. Let’s put it this way. Once you have one of these attached to this preamp you won’t want to swap it out. Really. I won’t part with mine.
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FYI, I still have this pre-amp: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=144203.msg1542348
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I have available for you at a savings! https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=160958.0
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https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=138092.msg1515540#msg1515540
by Chris Adams
I have one of Don's pre amps arriving on Wednesday. It has the Mundorf Silver/oil upgraded caps and a pair of Shuguang Treasure CV181 that Don said are the best he has heard in the pre. I also had the remote option installed. I will be glad to post my impressions after a bit of extended listening.
My current pre is a PrimaLuna Dialogue Premium.
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I'm running a VTA SP14 into a First Watt M2 clone with great results. The best sound I have had out of my system. This combo works very well together, because the SP14 has a lot of gain and the M2C only has only 15db of gain and 100k input impedance, so a a smaller cap on the SP14 works well with the amp. I have an Audyn True Copper Cap 1.0uF on the SP14 output, but could have probably used a smaller value, like 0.47uF with the FW, but I had them in the parts bin already.
Bottomline, you should match as best as possible the preamp to the amp you're going to be pairing it with looking at gain and impedance.