2. amps-preamps
  3. 1320727770

Pre-amp with balanced suggestions?

I'm looking to add a pre-amp to my setup. I've been 100% computer audio for awhile, but have a turntable that I need to integrate now.

I need something with balanced in and out, and I don't need a phono stage in the pre (I have a nice outboard phono pre).

I'm looking for something under $3000 used, transparency, detail, and holographic imaging are my priorities. Something that adds color is not what I want, just neutral and clean.

So what might you suggest?
vapor1
ck
101 posts
 
Look for a used BAT preamp. The Atma Sphere is also a player to consider.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,605 posts
 
The MP-3 mentioned earlier can have the phono stage installed at a later date if desired. The phono section is fully differential and balanced; FWIW historically was/is the first balanced phono stage ever built.
allchemie
118 posts
 
The Doge 8 at $1550 and the Doge 8 Clarity at $1950 are both excellent preamps and have a very good phono stage. It is very good looking and unsurpassed in performance at anywhere close to its price level. It is available at Pacific Valve.

Greg
wolf_garcia
6,623 posts
 
A new Kavent S-33 is much cheaper than 3K, and will stuff the monkeys out of most gear 3 times the price.
darkj's avatar
darkj
150 posts
 
Lots of good stuff in that price range - I second the Aesthetix Calypso. If you research this, don't let the folks who tell you to tube roll scare you off. The stock tubes sound great. I have used both the stock tubes and NOS tubes from Andy's Vintage tube services and while they are different, they both sound great, and the stock tubes are more neutral...
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