[rosconey]

why not try the odysey passive pre-nice price and should match very well -ask klaus if you can get one for trial-then if you dont like it try tubes.

[maxwalrath]

Try the modwright pre if you have a chance, I have it partnered with the Stratos right now and really like the results. Where are you located jmsun?

[jmsun]

Try the modwright pre if you have a chance, I have it partnered with the Stratos right now and really like the results. Where are you located jmsun?

I am in Princeton NJ.

[F-100]

Foreplay and Stratos is not a good match.  I've this combo and got rid of the Foreplay within a month. Right now, I'm using a Kora Equinoxe, while my Odyssey Tempest  is being upgrade, and it sounds very nice with my Onix Ref1.

[maxwalrath]

jmsun, I'm in Philly if you want to drop by to hear the modwright beta.

[KKM]

Check out the Marsh p2000t, it sounds great and very nicely built. The SS version got rave review from TAS, the tube version is even better. Nice thing is that its a hybrid and only has 2 tubes so not much to maintain, could have array of different tubes on hand to change the sound slightly depending on taste. Also check out some used Audio Research pre's have discovered even some of the older ones to sound outstanding, very detail and revealing.

[vrs]

at 695$, upgradability, with a tube sound(mid range) unlike T6 and T7
AVA T5 a good product to consider. It is very reliable and few people in this forum have them.It comes with tubes concealed and uses commonly available tubes.

[jmsun]

jmsun, I'm in Philly if you want to drop by to hear the modwright beta.

Max,
Thanks for the offer. I'd love to listen to your equipment. The key is to find the time. I will PM you when I am ready.
Philip