For sale is my fully differentially-balanced Cary SLP-05 preamp in their anthracite black chassis. I am the second owner. I sent it back to Cary for installation of their "Ultimate Upgrade" at the end of August 2017 (documentation will be included), at which time they fully inspected and tested the preamp for factory-specified performance. I also had them reposition the rectifier tube base in the power supply unit to allow installation of larger size tubes that previously couldn’t be used in their standard design model. The Ultimate Upgrade provided new audiophile caps and other items as described on Cary's website. The original design of this preamp provided spectacular sound, but the Ultimate Upgrade enhanced and refined the sound even further and improved the low frequency reach and impact. This SLP-05 synergized beautifully with my Bel Canto REF600M monoblocks.
But I am now consolidating my system in my retirement and must part with this fine piece of audio equipment to fund the purchase of an integrated amp. Refer to Cary Audio's website for a full description. And of course, many reviews may be found on-line.
The preamp consists of two units: power supply and preamp line stage. Both units are in great condition as they have always remained on my equipment rack in a dedicated music room in a smoke, pet and kid-free home. Because there is some minor wear (noticeable mainly within the power base top footer wells that supported the upper preamp unit) and small scratches consistent with its age, I felt obliged to rate it a 7. But it really looks very, very nice.
Nine tubes are included in the sale, but because I have no way of testing tubes I do not know their current ratings. The tubes, along with my best good-faith estimate of their cumulative on-times, include: (4) new production, gold-pin, Cryoset Electro-Harmonix 6SN7 tubes in the phase gain positions (≈<1500 hrs.); (2) Psvane 6SN7 tubes in the balanced input positions ( ≈<400 hrs.); (2) standard Electro-Harmonix 6SN7 tubes in the headphone positions (??? hrs.); (1) new production Mullard 5AR4 rectifier tube in the power unit (≈<200 hrs.). The interconnecting power supply cord is included, but the mains IEC power cord IS NOT included. The original remote is included but it is worn, cracked and occasionally stops working. Rather than buy a direct replacement from Cary, I purchased a generic remote that works great and is included in the sale.
The preamp will ship in two new Cary OEM shipping boxes that I purchased when the ultimate upgrade was performed. Two black HiFi Tuning fuses are installed in the power unit with the original generic fuses provided as spares.
I am asking $
5250 $4600 for this preamp which is available for sale only within the lower 48 states. Buyer to add actual shipping costs (insured at sales value) and the 2.9% PayPal fee to the sales price. I will quote you the actual shipping costs upon offer to buy. You may use a shipping calculator as a first approximation. Each box will weigh about 25 lbs and ships from 16066. An adult signature will be required upon delivery. Local pickup with cash sale discount is available. Please let me know if you have any questions.
