Ha, I am looking to upgrade my preamp for the Classe CA2200 as well. I think that this is a wonderful amp and really deserves a really nice pre-amp. I auditioned the VTL 6.5 and it was magical, huge soundstage, helped better define the base and brought a bigger three dementional sound to my system. The only thing that I didn't like was the price of the 6.5. I also listened to the 5.5, and really liked it but it was not much different from my Belles 21A with Auricaps and NOS tubes. As I am pretty happy with the belles for now I may wait for the Next Gen 5.5 to come out, though initial reports at shows suggest it is not quiet the 6.5. I have also considered an Aesthetix Janus signature as a full function pre-amp.
Need Help Choosing a Tube Preamp for a Classe Amp
I have Thiel CS3.7 speakers and a Delta 2200 Classe amp. I'd like some suggestions for what tube preamps to audition to match with this amp/speaker combo. The Thiels are wonderful but unforgiving of things like tube rush and I have little interest in tube rolling or high maintenance. The Classe Delta is a fairly neutral SS amp. I'd rather not spend more than $3000 used...or is that unreasonably low? I've listened to the VTL 5.5 and was impressed.