2. amps-preamps
  3. 1188364335

tube pre suggestion

Hi Everyone,

I'm currently running an all nuforce system with the P8 preamp and the ref 9SE (currently v1, soon to be v2) amps. I have this hooked to Thiel PCS speakers.

I'd like to dump the nuforce pre and try something else. I've heard that a tubed pre is the way to go with my amps...a buddy of mine who I trust heard the Modwright SWL 9.0 SE with the nuforce amps and said it was incredible.

I'm new to experimenting with preamps--my other system has a Krell integrated so I've never needed to play with in this area. Any suggestions on where to start? My budget is $1500-$2k, and I'm thinking used market exclusively to maximize my value.

Comments from the Audiogon Gurus are appreciated!
samgupta101

Showing 1 response by vicdamone

vicdamone
850 posts
 
This may be out of left field but..............

After a short time I found the combination of my SE's, and my speakers to be so transparently resolving that the presents of my tube preamplifier had me listening to the preamp. There is absolutely nothing incorrect about this after all this is all about a matter of taste and I can't comment on the P8.

I would strongly suggest you audition a battery powered preamp against a tube model along with a player/DAC with tubes in the output stage before you commit.
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