I just bought a used Chardonnay and got it running after a few hiccups like a stuck input selector and then getting a bit confused on using the correct input. But, all is well and this is one terrific preamp!!
A few things that were noticeable right away:
1) detail retrieval is excellent
2) this is the best representation, by far, of individual voices in a chorus
3) voices and instruments are much more natural
4) less glare/harshness and I’ll admit to having an asymmetrical room that needs lots of treatments
The tubes I currently have are
5U4C rectifier - Russian (green and white box)
6NS7 Tung-Sol
6N3C no brand visible
I’m quite open to tube rolling and an upgraded umbilical cord, maybe even a fuse upgrade. A couple of Agon members have been very helpful already and I much appreciate that.
A few things that were noticeable right away:
1) detail retrieval is excellent
2) this is the best representation, by far, of individual voices in a chorus
3) voices and instruments are much more natural
4) less glare/harshness and I’ll admit to having an asymmetrical room that needs lots of treatments
The tubes I currently have are
5U4C rectifier - Russian (green and white box)
6NS7 Tung-Sol
6N3C no brand visible
I’m quite open to tube rolling and an upgraded umbilical cord, maybe even a fuse upgrade. A couple of Agon members have been very helpful already and I much appreciate that.