2. amps-preamps
  3. 1069552157

Tube pre amp suggestions for my Bryston 3BST

I'm looking to use a tube pre amp to warm up and add some dynamics to my 3BST. I'm considering a Conrad Johnson PV10B or maybe an older Sonic Frontier Line 1...
I have read a number of your discussions here that promote the use of tube pre amps with brighter SS amps. I like the idea very much, just looking for some suggestions/feedback on specific mates for my amp.
p.s. Arcam CD, PMC LB1s or Dynaudio Audience 82s.
gelmhirst
10 responses Add your response
nac25's avatar
nac25
8 posts
 
How about a BAT VK3i? Balanced connection, tubed pre that can be had for a little over $1k?
gelmhirst OP
64 posts
 
thanks everyone, these suggestions are very helpful !
kek23
48 posts
 
I was using a AES AE-3 with a 4Bst with great results, went on to a Rogue Magnum 99. You difinitely want to go the tube route; it brings out the best in the Bryston. You dont know what your missing until you throw a tube preamp into your system. Good luck and happy listening.

kek
canucks0
44 posts
 
Check out the Blue Circle 21.1 (Re-reviewed in Stereophile most recently). It'll tame things down and bring sound you expected to your ears. Cheers.Dave.
jrd351
332 posts
 
the cj is an excellent match
mikesinger
572 posts
 
audio research ls2b mkII or one of the variations.

it is alot of preamp for the money and probabley the best buy for under $1k in my opinion.

tube rolling is cheapfor the unit.

hope that helps !!!

mike
bigkidz
3,311 posts
 
The brightness maybe coming fron your source versus the preamp. I never found the Brystons bright sounding but extended. I myself just changed to a better source and the improvement was far better than a preamp in my system.

Happy Listening.
czbbcl's avatar
czbbcl
1,752 posts
 
I would suggest the Conrad johnson PV-10 as you mention. Very open airy and detailed with large and deep sound stage.
rgd
656 posts
 
Rogue Magnum 66 or if you can make the leap to a Magnum 99 you'll be in heaven. Have married 3 Rogues to 3 Bryston amps with much success!!!
joman
167 posts
 
Many people enjoy the Rogue 6 with the Bryston. There is several threads in the archives discusssing this.
Log in to respond
More to discover
80x80
Audio Research Ref 3 Phono Vacuum tube preamp
80x80
Atma-Sphere MP-1
80x80
Jeff Rowland Capri SC-S2