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Looking for Alternative Preamp to Blue Circle BC3

I've lived with a Blue Circle BC3 preamp for a while now and I have only good things to say about it. The trouble is, my wife is intimidated by the dual volume controls and after much discussion I've agreed to start exploring alternatives. I want similar performance, my wife wants a single volume control (to her credit, she appreciates the quality of the BC preamp and also wants to maintain this level of standard). What preamps should I be looking into? The Herron preamp and the Ayre preamps appear to be viable options. What else would you recommend? Thanks for your input.
nalgene8954

Showing 2 responses by sugarbrie

sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
If you just have the basic BC3 Depina (the one with the standard power supply), you may want to check out Gilbert's new BC-21.1 preamp. The new model uses the same tubes as the BC3, has an upgraded power supply, and can be custom ordered with the same hand-made stepped volume control as the BC3 (a single control).

I heard the new BC-21.1 at CES. It sounded better to me than most under $2K preamps I have ever heard. You may find it equals your BC3 if it is the basic model.

You can also custom order the BC-21.1 with a remote control volume control.

Don't be afraid to ask Gilbert about it. You can say I sent you if you want (can't hurt). He may even be able to do something with your BC3. Who knows until you ask.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
FYI, the original BC21 is still a nice preamp. Gilbert mainly went to the BC21.1 because he can no longer find a large enough supply of good quality new 6SN7 tubes. He tests all his tubes before using them, and too many of the new 6SN7 he was getting were not up to his standards. And he buys them bulk, as is, so he cannot return the ones he does not like.

He actually will still make the BC21 for those who prefer the sound of the 6SN7 tube. He can actually make you a new BC21 with many of the BC21.1 upgrades.

If you ask nicely, he will also make a custom order BC21 or BC21.1 with the power supply in a separate case, similar to the BC3.
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