High Output Preamp for First Watt SIT-3?


I'm new to the audiophile world and recently purchased a First Watt SIT-3 with Magnepan .7s.  I have a Mytek Brooklyn Bridge for streaming, though I prefer to play vinyl with my Mofi Ultradeck.  The Mytek serves as the phono stage (69dB gain for MM?), and I don't use a preamp;  the Brooklyn is connected directly to the First Watt. 

I understand that the SIT-3 is only 11.5 dB of gain, and that's extremely low compared to most amps.  I like most everything about the system except for the fact that I have the Mytek maxed out volume-wise many days.  Certain LPs are cut quieter, and I wish I had more power.  There are times streaming where the Maggies aren't getting to their sweet spot.  I realize the Maggies are a lower sensitivity speaker. 

What should I look for in a preamp to fully drive the SIT-3?  Eventually, I'd like to replace the phono stage instead of relying on the Brooklyn.  Is there a tube preamp featuring a phono stage with sufficient output to drive my amp in the $4k range?  Otherwise, I'm eyeing the Modwright PH 9.0 and a linestage preamp, realizing that this will probably be costlier.  I'm looking for a warm sound, not analytical but engaging. 

Any help is greatly appreciated.  I'm a working musician with a basic understanding of related electronics but little experience in this world. 

murphbass

Showing 1 response by gastubes

I also have the combination of a First Watt SIT-3 and Magnepan .7's. Like the OP I also made this choice largely on the basis of the Herb Reichert and Steve Guttenberg reviews. In my case I also have a similar sized listening room (10.5' X 12.5') to that of Herb Reichert, so I knew that I would not need as much power. In my space, the combo is absolutely wonderful at the listening levels I prefer. To the OP I would recommend checking out the Supratek line of preamps as possible high gain options. I have a latest generation Supratek Chardonnay and it is a wonderful combination with the SIT-3. Of course YMMV.
Greg