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Preamp choice for a Dynaco ST-35 amp

Hi all,

I am new to the forum and just getting into hifi gear. I have Dynaco ST-35 amp freshly restored by Blackie Pagano in NYC, and I am wondering what preamp to pair it with.

I am considering the Dynaco PAS 3X tube preamp (around $500), but also am tempted by a Mcintosh C32 solid state preamp going for around $1000. Generally I'm wondering if anyone has experience with using tube / ss preamps in combo with a tube power amp and any thoughts about these specific preamps or others...

Also, I plan on using the setup with my turntable and some sort of aux input for an iPhone / Mac... Do I also need some sort of a DAC for the aux stuff? I am new to all this TBH.

Any advice would be much appreciated... Thanks!
128x128wesleysmyth

Showing 2 responses by randy-11

randy-11
1,913 posts
 
best sound quality for your computer files will be with a separate DAC, some are built into modern pre-amps

a good SS pre-amp will be just fine (I say that as a guy with 2 tube pre-amps)

you could use the DACs built into your iphone or mac at least for a while

you say 500/1,000 but what is your total budget?

speakers are the most critical thing to spend $$ on...
randy-11
1,913 posts
 
ok, if you are set on those speakers

2nd big sound quality issue would be room treatments

if you still have $1k left after that, I'd buy pre-amps either from a dealer who will let you try it in your home, or from mail order with a return privilege.

Emotiva has adherents but there are a lot of reports of quality control problems

Well regarded names include nad, Rotel, and Parasound - the latter may be just a tad over $1k but many would say it is well worth it.

be sure the pre-amp has the control functionality to fit your needs - many lack that these days

whatever you do, do NOT waste $$ on expensive interconnects, but it is often wise to run balanced cables and use balanced components
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