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Best bargain ARC tube pre amp around a grand

I need some opinions on which ARC pre amp to look for (and which to avoid) used , in the vicinity of $1000-1300. or so. Im pairing it with a pair of Quicksilver Audio M-60's with Sovtec KT-88's and driving Maggie 3.3's.(IM actually very pleased with these amps driving the 3.3r to moderate levels in my room) I want the lush yet detailed ARC tube sound. phono optional,but VPI Aries/jmw10.5 and Lyra Helikon,is worth a good phone stage if it can handle the low output of the lyra... I've owned so many tube and SS amps and pre amps, mostly cj over the years, but ARC is somewhat less familiar. LS vs. SP...anyone???lots of used unit out there
I need some insight.

thanks
ken
128x128kehut

Showing 2 responses by kehut

kehut's avatar
kehut OP
668 posts
 
Well my search has ended with the purchase of SP-9Mk II with a JAN Philips NOS tube, and at a price that keeps me a solvent corporation for Christmas ! $800. shipped! I've been promised not to be disappointed and although the output of the Lyra coil is boarderline for this pre amp, alot does depend upon the effeciency of the speakers being driven and the input Volt of the amps. So lets enjoy the music and push on. Thanks to all very valued responses and good listening!

Ken
kehut's avatar
kehut OP
668 posts
 
Thanks Jwin,

I'll check it out. Oh It's a Mullard NOS as for the tubes.
I have a Monolithic ps-1/hc-1 just in case.
Ken
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