Best tubed full-function preamp with remote


Until a few days ago I was a happy user of a McIntosh C220 mainly due to its switching capabilities and its unobtrusiveness (I am extremely sensitive to sibilance). Recently I bought an Audible Illusion Modulus 3B for my secondary system and it bettered my McIntosh significantly. More colours, more dynamics more life-like presentation and still no sibilance.

Because of use in a home theatre setting I need a remote (minimally with volume control). So what I now need is a full function (MC-able) tubed preamp with remote. Models that come to mind are ModWright LS100, Ear 868, Aethetix Janus, McIntosh 2300, Hovland 200 other?? I would prefer a one box design and 2nd hand price not more than 4200.00.- $.

Analog front end: VPI Super Scoutmaster with a Denon 103R; Digital front ends: OPPO 95 with Modwright tube modification and PC with JRIVER and Wyred-4-Sound Dac2. Speakers are Gallo Ref 3.5 driven by a Cayin 9021, V211 based SET amp plus a Gallo subamp.

Any opinions or options that I missed????
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Showing 5 responses by mofimadness

Great choice. I love my LS100. Make sure you change out the 5AR4/GZ34 rectifier also.
Dan recommends a Mullard 5AR4/GZ34 in place of the stock Sovtek. Sorry, I didn't mean that you should replace it with a completely different tube. However, Dan has mentioned to me that a 5U4G will also work and give a little more of a relaxed sound.

Here is a thread on tube rolling with the LS100:

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=92112.0
Shakedown, yes! I started in the Modwright realm with a SWL9.0SE, then sold it and went to the SWL9.0SE Signature.

In both units, I used a Mullard 5AR4 and it was a BIG improvement. Also, if you haven't tried yet, swap out the 5687's for a pair of Amperex Holland 7119's.
Hanshhh...if you bought the LS100 new, it really takes about 400-500 hours to fully break-in. It will open up even more, once broken in.

Congrats on your new preamp. I've had mine for about 18 months now and everyday it still surprises me.