[rmyers]

I currently have a AES AE-3 DJH Preamplifier linking together my Metrum Hex DAC and Pass Labs x150.5 Amp.  I think the pre is obviously the weakest link in my chain, but at the same time I'm reluctant to upgrade it.  I guess I'm of the school that a preamp doesn't matter as much as the amp or the DAC.  Could anyone share their opinions on this?  In what ways (sound qualities) could I really upgrade the Pre, and if so which ones would you recomend?

Thanks

[galyons]

I guess I'm of the school that a preamp doesn't matter as much as the amp or the DAC.  Could anyone share their opinions on this?  In what ways (sound qualities) could I really upgrade the Pre, and if so which ones would you recomend?

Thanks

Think about the function of the pre...every source goes through it and every amp takes its signal from the pre.  Given those facts, I am of the school that the pre is most important.  It effects the signal quality of every component in the chain.

Improvements to look for are the standards...better clarity, detail, timbre, frequency response, dynamics, imaging and soundstaging. 

Cheers,
Geary

[rmyers]

I'm guessing as with any piece of gear, the upgraded wires, caps, resisters, etc, results in better sound.  Can you suggest something as an upgrade over my AES, or perhaps direct me to an online tube preamp comparison/shootout?

Thanks

[rmyers]

Supratek and Manley were two I've been considering

[Diamond Dog]

Supratek and Manley were two I've been considering

I had a Manley Jumbo Shrimp and upgraded to a Neo-Classic 300B - the Shrimp was a fabulous thing for what it cost at the time - the Neo is other-worldly. Can't describe how much I love the thing. I've heard that pre get dropped into an uber-system w/ top of the line SS monos and awesome speakers ( not mine, of course - way beyond that ) in favour of an " ultra-linear SS wonder-pre "  and elevate it to a whole other level of listenability. I am a big-time believer in the importance of a great pre and Manley makes great pre's. 

D.D.   

[galyons]

Take your current AES preamp and think of it as the benchmark.  Now, what do you need or want to improve?

Cheers,
Geary

[rmyers]

Take your current AES preamp and think of it as the benchmark.  Now, what do you need or want to improve?

Cheers,
Geary

I'd like it to be a little beefier and warmer to counteract the brightish Pass amp.  Plus, I listen to a lot of rock, so beefy and well extended in the bass regions is always a plus

[Austin08]

Wow...Pass Lab component sounds bright? Anyway, if you like your AES then You should consider Cary SPL05.

[bluemike]

fwiw check out my add for the Audioprism Mantissa I have here on the circle
It's fully decked out and sounds excellent to these ears
Not as warm as the supratek but much more transparent

[jimdgoulding]

I had a Manley Jumbo Shrimp and upgraded to a Neo-Classic 300B - the Shrimp was a fabulous thing for what it cost at the time - the Neo is other-worldly. Can't describe how much I love the thing. I've heard that pre get dropped into an uber-system w/ top of the line SS monos and awesome speakers ( not mine, of course - way beyond that ) in favour of an " ultra-linear SS wonder-pre "  and elevate it to a whole other level of listenability. I am a big-time believer in the importance of a great pre and Manley makes great pre's. 

D.D.

Still got those Fact 8's, huh Dog?  I re-read the review in Hifi Plus earlier this week.  Wish I could hear them.  Your NEO, too, yessir. 

[Diamond Dog]

Still got those Fact 8's, huh Dog?  I re-read the review in Hifi Plus earlier this week.  Wish I could hear them.  Your NEO, too, yessir.

Yup, Jim - still waitin' on the fact.12's I ordered back in June but I ain't sufferin' too badly with the 8's  . The Neo is really worth seeking out. The thought of replacing it never - and I mean never- crosses my addled mind. I've got it tubed just right and I want for nothing. It's God's own headphone amp, too ! { guess that's why you nearly never see a used one up on the block.

D.D.

[rmyers]

Hmmm, good to know, I'll look into the headphone amp, for driving my LCD-2s

[KJ]

I'd like it to be a little beefier and warmer to counteract the brightish Pass amp

If something in your system is bright, it most certainly should not be your Pass Labs amp.  They are one of the most neutral amps I've ever owned, albeit probably the most liquid solid state amp I've owned.

If you're seeking out a tubed pre-amp, I'd heartily suggest checking out the Purity Audio Design line up.  Here's my review of their Ultra GT which I currently have paired with a pair of XA100.5s.  Great combo.

Best of luck in your search.

[rmyers]

I think the Red Wine Isabella Preamp may fit the bill.  Has anyone every tried it with a PASS or similar high power Class A amp?