[SHXMD]

Hello!

Seeking input from Bryston experts about possible Tube Pre-Amp.

One of the older crew getting back into audio as time permits.

Last system was Bryston.5/2B-LP and Snell E “2”s.
Did well for 40 years until foam fell out of Snells.

Procured some Magnapan LRS+ (6 month wait) and 2B-LP due back from “back to the future program” this week.
(It drove LRS+ without trouble before it went to rehab. Room is not large.)

.5 works very well but want to try a tube pre-amp.

I will not be able to hear this combination anywhere so I thought I would solicit input from this group even though not SS.

I understand some may just have a preference for a brand of pre-amp. Currently looking
at Prima Luna and AVA

Interested most in accuracy and “liveness” of excellent recordings. Not interested in warmth for warmth’s sake.

Music-all types.

Room will be adjustment for sound/no phono/Inputs- CDs and stream (input-AT&T Fiber modem-router/hard wired CAT 6 Ethernet/to “optical moat”
to streamer. Wi-Fi controls stream from external server. (So I am told)

Any thoughts, rambles or rants greatly appreciated.

SHXMD

[mresseguie]

Good  morning, SHXMD.

I think you'll probably get more responses if you post your question in the Tube-o-phile Circle.

If the folks at Bryston don't mind my answering your question here, I'd like to recommend you take a look at the Don Sachs Model 2 6SN7 preamp. It pairs well with both SS and tube amps; throws a deep soundstage, and does a great job with separation of instruments and vocals. I'm very biased toward D Sachs preamps - I own two of them.

[To Bryston admins: If my response in this Circle is inappropriate, please inform me, and I will delete it.]

Regards,

Michael

[Ron D]

I agree that posted in another circle might garnish more answers but with Bryston's recently acquired Magnum Dynalab they now have a tube preamp in the mix though I am unfamiliar with the product...

[jobiwon]

Consider Rogue Audio in your search.  Good value products and service.

[SHXMD]

Hello!

My apologies for perhaps not targeting this perfectly and hopefully I did not cause trouble.

I opined if anybody would know about this SS and pre amp tube combination it would be here.

All input very much appreciated!

[shakey]

My dealer says he has customers that use Conrad Johnson preamps with Bryston amps with excellent results.

[PeterG]

I'm using an ARC LS28, 4B3 combo...sounds great....an improvement over my BP 173 pre

[PeterG]

also note that the ARC LS28 is double the cost of the BP173

[SHXMD]

Hello and Thanks!

CJ has alway been a favorite but has escalated out of my price range new.
Can go vintage but raises maintenance costs/transport issues.
Nonetheless a consideration.

The ARC falls the same way cost wise.

Both would be most acceptable.

One other recommendation advanced has been the microZotl preamp.
Wondering if anyone has experience matching with Bryston power.

Thanks again all!

Best,

S

[veloceleste]

The Microzotl preamps do not sound like a traditional tube preamp at all. They are clean, clear, detailed, and image and soundstage very well.

[SHXMD]

Sir,

This is EXACTLY what I needed to know.

The few formal reviews and comments on both LTA models are so glowing that they either describe some “almost other worldly phenomena” or there is some bias.

This relieves a concern I have as I move in this direction.

Thank you for taking the time to respond!

Best,

S

[veloceleste]

Sir,

This is EXACTLY what I needed to know.

The few formal reviews and comments on both LTA models are so glowing that they either describe some “almost other worldly phenomena” or there is some bias.

This relieves a concern I have as I move in this direction.

Thank you for taking the time to respond!

Best,

S

Let us know which LTA unit you try. I hope you find the sound you’re listening for!

[SHXMD]

The Microzotl pre-amp. Level 1 with XLR.

Will do.

Thx!

S

[tipatina]

Have used AVA tube preamp and Dehavilland preamp with my 4BSST. Both were really good but eventually went back to Bryston BP 26 because I wanted mono/phase control, and balanced connections. You cant go wrong with AVA or Dehavilland if you are wanting tube pre.

[dB Cooper]

Hello!



Interested most in accuracy and “liveness” of excellent recordings. Not interested in warmth for warmth’s sake.

AVA. Full stop.

[toocool4]

Don't know your budget, but if you want something good with little compromise look at Audio Note.
If I was a valve guy, I would look no further than Audio Note or Zanden.

[SHXMD]

Hello!

Thanks for the continuing recommendations.

AVA was a continual recommendation but decided to try the Microzotl Preamp with balanced inputs.

Awaiting receipt and trial. Will report on aliveness or liveliness as well as balance with Bryston.

Best!

S

[bunkertoy]

Hey,

I own a Bryston 3B3, I used to have a great Bryston BP-25 pre. Then I also got the bug to try tubes with solid state.
Read lots about a great pairing, solid state & Tubes.

I don't have a lot of experience with tube pre amps, but I did browse many models. The prices can really get high for a nice tube pre.

I found a nice 10 year old VTL 2.5 pre. got it for a reasonable $1500. That was right in my price category. much older versions of this model still go for $1800. I find it pairs very well with a Bryston. Bryston has all the right specs to match with the average tube pre amp. Of course now I have dreams of the VTL 5.5 with balanced connections. $$$$

Most decent tube pre amps are pretty expensive. You just have to shop around.

Have fun doing your research.
Cheers

[SHXMD]

Hello!

Thanks to Bryston for tolerating this rather off point thread and all responders. What amazes me is the number of high end tube manufacturers who are never mentioned in the audio press.

VTL was never mentioned on the Tube-o-Phile circle.

The Rec is greatly appreciated but older tube gear makes me tense as does tube rolling.

Unfortunately, I simply cannot afford the newer VTL gear.

I did elect to go with the Microzotl Preamp which, while not completely broken in, clearly provides me the  aliveness or liveliness sound (slightly fuller in mid-upper bass and high end) was seeking. One can reach into the sound stage of the LRS+.

The vintage-(+back to the future) 2B-LP drives the LRS+ without breaking a sweat. I never get past 34 (out of 100) on the dial.

This thread has been the most helpful on this hybrid search.

Thanks again-all!

[bunkertoy]

Glad you found something you like. Btw pre-amp tube gear is very reliable, regardless of age. Tube rolling is at your own discretion, if you find tubes you enjoy, just stick with them. Tubes last much longer on a pre-amp, than they do on a tube amp.

Congrats on your purchase.
Cheers