2. amps-preamps
  3. 1341531383

Stereo preamp upgrade

Hello! I was hoping to get some advice from the last true audiophiles. Some time ago I purchased my first separates system after my college roommate got me into home audio. The system consists of a Rotel RC-1070 preamp, Rotel RB-1080 amp, Paradigm Studio Monitor 100 v2's, with Tara Labs and AQ power cords and IC's. Something isn't "right" with my system. I'm pretty sure it's my preamp.

I've had a great opportunity to hear a LOT of equipment, since my aforementioned roommate was a repair tech at a local hi-fi shop. He would bring really nice gear home constantly and we would audition his repair work, not to mention the equipment at the store. He had the same speakers as I have now so I know how they can sound.

The Rotel preamp is decent but the bass is not 'warm & soothing,' but has more of a raw feel. It seems to be tight and controlled, likely due to the amp, but it just doesn't seem to have that 'earthy' feel if that makes sense. The soundstage could be improved. It seems wide enough, given my crappy apartment acoustics, but the depth just isn't there. There is no 3rd dimension. Tonality is great. It's not dark or overly bright.

So, I'm looking for a recommendation for a new preamp. I only want a stereo preamp. I would love to have one with a optical input, but I suppose I could get a DAC instead (that's a whole 'nother subject), as I've begun to use a computer to play .flac's. I'm looking to spend around $500 and don't mind if it's used. I've considered the Adcom GFP-750 as I know it's a solid unit, but I don't have much experience in preamps.

What would you do in my position? Music comes first.
chips_n_hotsauce

Showing 1 response by pdspecl

pdspecl
254 posts
 
If you can stretch your budget a bit a TAD Signature 150 would be a great choice. I recently acquired a N.E.W. P3 (made by Cary) for $525 and I'm very happy with it. With quality NOS tubes it equals the VTL 2.5 preamp that I had. AES also made my Cary has some nice preamps. An older Counterpoint SA-2000 is another alternative and well within your budget.
I suggest avoiding Audible Illusions. I had a Modulus 3 years back and it was hard on tubes. You're limited to specific tubes that can handle the abuse. I've read the rebuilt Dynaco PAS preamps using Van Alstine mods sound nice too for the money although I have not personally heard one. Whatever tube preamp you get you'll need to factor in additional cost or quality NOS tubes. They do make a difference. However, cost can add up quickly for good tubes. I tend to limit my preamp choices to preamps that use (6) or less tubes, preferably (4) to limit money needed for tubes.
Best wishes
More to discover