I second VAC for tubes. On my 2nd VAC preamp and its very good, although I'm told the Renaissance Signature Mk 2 mentioned by John above is even better. I'd say it hits your parameters - the sound is very hypnotic (in a good way) and draws you into the music. Build quality/support are as good as it gets.
Seeking suggestions for Preamp
Current speakers/amps:
- Wilson Sophia 2's
- Pass XA 100.5 and/or Citadel 1.5 amps
Preamps auditioned:
- Audio Research REF 3
- VTL 5.5
- Esoteric C-03
- Doshi Alaap
I don't like the REF 3 - there's nothing about it that I like. The VTL was dirty sounding. The Esoteric was nice, but brand new and I only auditioned it for an hour or so, but it didn't quite have the body I was looking for.
The Doshi has it in spades and might be my answer, but I'm looking to see what else is out there.
I'm looking for something romantic and a bit bloomy, but NOT noisy and very extended (don't like anything the least bit rolled off on top).
I'm about to try the Pass XP-20 preamp even though it's solid state.
Any ideas of other pre's to pursue?
- Wilson Sophia 2's
- Pass XA 100.5 and/or Citadel 1.5 amps
Preamps auditioned:
- Audio Research REF 3
- VTL 5.5
- Esoteric C-03
- Doshi Alaap
I don't like the REF 3 - there's nothing about it that I like. The VTL was dirty sounding. The Esoteric was nice, but brand new and I only auditioned it for an hour or so, but it didn't quite have the body I was looking for.
The Doshi has it in spades and might be my answer, but I'm looking to see what else is out there.
I'm looking for something romantic and a bit bloomy, but NOT noisy and very extended (don't like anything the least bit rolled off on top).
I'm about to try the Pass XP-20 preamp even though it's solid state.
Any ideas of other pre's to pursue?
- ...
- 31 posts total
- 31 posts total