2. amps-preamps
  3. 1013876987

Pre-amp Suggestions for Tubes & Electrostats

I am considering testing a pre-amp in a system that now consists of VTL 450 monoblocks, Martin Logan SL3s, Sony SCD777ES, and a Cello passive attenuator. I am not sure if I 'need' to replace the passive pre yet but am interested in giving it a try and expect to add analog eventually. If I do make the switch to a pre-amp, it would be to something to keep through further iterations of the source and speakers (I assume the VTLs are 'permanent'). Musical tastes eclectic but primarily listen to classical music (from chamber music to opera) and jazz.

I had been strongly leaning towards tubes but I recently heard a JRDG Synergy II in someone else's system and noted it made a remarkable difference from before (can't for the life of me remember what 'before' was) and so am interested in learning about good tube AND SS pre-amps which would match the system and welcome any and all suggestions on pre-amps (or advice to keep what I have).
Thanks,
t_bone

Showing 1 response by tacs

tacs
220 posts
 
I'm a little doubtful about adding an active stage to that system, unless there's an obvious matching problem between the Sony and the amps, or unless you want more functionality that a simple passive attenuator doesn't give you...it's hard to get good active curcuits that also have as resolving a volume control as the Cello.
But sounds like you might be somehow dissatisfied with the system?

Assuming you're trying them out, I would think that one of VTLs better tube preamps would be a good match to your amps. Also Joule Electra LA-100, Sira, Cary, etc.
my 2c.
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