Soix: Thanks for the info and insight.
Tube Preamp Recommendations please to partner with Parasound JC-1's....
I would appreciate recommendations from the Audiogon community for a tube preamp with balanced outputs to use with a pair of Parasound JC-1 's. Having a good built-in MC phono stage is a real plus.
Looking for something used at less tha $5k.
Considering a McIntosh C2300.....is there anything else I should consider?
Currently using an Audio Aero Prestige CD with built-in pre amp. The goal is to improve musicality and add a bit of warmth (better mid-bass). Speakers are Piega P-10's.
Recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Looking for something used at less tha $5k.
Considering a McIntosh C2300.....is there anything else I should consider?
Currently using an Audio Aero Prestige CD with built-in pre amp. The goal is to improve musicality and add a bit of warmth (better mid-bass). Speakers are Piega P-10's.
Recommendations will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
22 responses Add your response
ap_wannabe: I wish I could help, but I continue to use the preamp (with tube output stage) in my Audio Aero Prestige CD/SACD/DAC player with my Parasound JC-1’s. I’ve tried the Mac C2500, but preferred the preamp in my Audio Aero. I hope you enjoy the JC-1’s. They have been great performers for me for a number of years and at their price point, they are terrific. |
I use VTL 450MKII tubed mono blocks. There are a few of us who purchased NOS close-out C2500's lurking about. I would have been happy with the C2300. My understanding is, with the C2500 Mc added a DAC to the package and a few other control features but sound wise the C2500 is pretty much the same as the C2300. So picking the C2500 came down to paying a little more for new and the three year warranty. Good Luck. |
Thanks again to all. Atmosphere, six and vegasears. Much appreciated. Vegasears: Would you please tell me what amp(s) you are using? I read a recent review on the Steve Hoffman site and the user said that he bought a C2500 and was very pleased... Unlike the C2300, the C2500 has the ability to change the input names too as they are not affixed like with the C2300. |
Here's one worth a look. Fully decked out would be about half your price limit, and you could get their top phono pre for another $900 and still have $ left over. http://www.tubes4hifi.com/SP14.htm You might email Don Sachs to see if he can add all the features you seek, and I think they offer a trial period which is really nice from my perspective. Best of luck. |
@gerryn I use Transparent balanced to the amps and Audience speaker cables. I have not heard many others. I have really enjoyed the AA for many years. The preamp seems very good. Just always wondering what a separate tube pre would do.In most cases a tube preamp will sound more relaxed and detailed. BTW the MP-3 suggested earlier is balanced. |
Coincident make very affordable tube phono stages. Here's a used Coincident Statement phono stage for $3,800 A review in case you are unfamiliar with Coincident. |
Thanks to all for your insights. Much appreciated.... jafant: I use Transparent balanced to the amps and Audience speaker cables. I have not heard many others. I have really enjoyed the AA for many years. The preamp seems very good. Just always wondering what a separate tube pre would do. My current phono stage is an old PS Audio GCPH. Audioman58: what brand is a 4P1L that you mention? |
I have had jsny brand name preamps but nine better the the 4P1L Based tube preamplifier single ended,DHT completely Lundahl transformer based and chokes . If it is on the recording you will hear it. This us my 2nd one for under $5k you grt a hsnd made Product using far higher quality parts then the competition I compare this with $10 k preamplifier and using the Khozmo Shunt relay volume, and 4pole Mlyyic power caps ,and bypassed with Mundorf Silver oil caps. |
