2. amps-preamps
  3. 162402-148003

Entry Level Tube Preamp or Higher Quality Used Model?

Hi All-

Overall I have great system that I’m happy with. But I recently heard a tube preamp and am smitten. There appear to be some well reviewed affordable models from Schiit Audio and Rogue, etc. that can be had for relatively short money. However for roughly the same price I can get a used piece from a traditionally higher quality brand like AudioResearch, Conrad Johnson, etc.

I’d like to stay around $1500 or less. Balanced operation would be good too. No phone pre section needed. The Schiit Freya+ Seems to be a good economical option. Are any of the new Chi-Fi brands worth a look? Does anyone have a recommendation?

thanks

glen
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Showing 3 responses by jjss49

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,608 posts
 
yup

higher level used, much much much much better for $ spent

buy the best cj you can afford, or if you must have balanced, then audio research
jjss49's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jjss49
6,608 posts
 
i looked in the classifieds, seems like 1500 won’t buy a recent/good enough cj or arc linestage...

here is an option - have it checked out thoroughly - if it is good this thing is excellent

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649600657-sonic-frontiers-line-2-preamp-and-ps-black-faceplate-i...

otherwise the modwright or aesthetix may be good options as well
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,608 posts
 
audio research recently changed hands (again), but back to old guard folks, so i would imagine the arc ethic and care will live on as much as practically possible

but bill j and leonard and others we knew are gone (rip), there are newer folks that are less linked to the history of the place when it was founded and built its reputation, so even dealing w the new guard like greg c the technical/service mgr, it feels rather different

that being said, arc will live on, and care for customers with old gear as much as possible
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