At the advice of a friend, I recently replaced my NHT Passive Volume Control with the basic preamp model (QA-001 SE) from Space Tech Labs (STL) out of Vancouver BC.
The NHT had performed well between my Scott Nixon Tubedac and Carver Pro ZR1000, with Ridge Street MSE II I/CS in and out, but my friend suggested the NHT was a weak link and that STL's tubed preamps would add that tube magic to the proceedings. Based on the fact that he has consistently demonstrated a keen insight into high end audio bargains, and that reviewers were comparing STL's $350.00 QA-001 to $5000 models from Audio Research, I took his advice.
I contacted Albert, the owner of STL, and found him to be a true gentleman. He immediately quizzed me about my system and sound preferences so that he could custom build the preamp to my tastes.
After a few days of burn-in, I found the QA-001 brought a dramatic increase to my system's soundstage, which I had already thought was very, very good. It also improved clarity, detail and dynamics, seperating instruments beautifully. Most dramatic, however, has been the increased bass response - bass lines are now much deeper and pronounced, bringing greater punch and body to all of my recordings.
Even after the positive reviews I'd read I was surprised by how well this inexpensive preamp improved my sytem.
I think Albert's tubed preamps partner extremely well with digital amps like the ZR1000. Together they produce totally grain-free, dynamic, high resolution amplification
In a market driven by brand recognition guys like Albert and his hand made products fall below the radar for most people, and it's unfortunate, because he provides first class service and products that compete favorably with very high end gear,... for a fraction of the cost..
Check out his exceptional line of gear at
http://www.space-tech-lab.comMatt
